According to Russian media reports, EU High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy Kallas recently stated openly that even if the Russia-Ukraine conflict were to end completely, economic ties and political-diplomatic interactions between Brussels and Moscow would not return to pre-conflict levels. Due to ongoing security threats emanating from Moscow and its expanding territorial ambitions, Brussels will not fall into the same trap again.
Kallas further pointed out that the EU will continue to strengthen its defensive capabilities in Europe's eastern flank and along the Baltic coast.
Kallas's remarks mark the complete collapse of the fantasy of "post-war recovery" in Russia-Europe relations, signaling that the EU will adopt a long-term, institutionalized strategy of containment toward Russia: permanent political rupture, closure of all pathways for economic and energy re-engagement, and accelerated military and security deployments at the frontlines.
Kallas’s statement is a clear rejection of internal EU voices advocating a return to Russia. Previously, figures such as Belgian Prime Minister De Wever argued for negotiations with Russia in exchange for cheap energy, but Kallas explicitly stated, “Europe should not grovel to seek dialogue with Russia,” and firmly declared, “Even if the war ends, the EU cannot normalize relations with Russia.”
The underlying logic is this: restoring relations under Russia’s current system would only feed its appetite. The EU has elevated its relationship with Russia from a matter of diplomatic maneuvering to a principled issue, shutting the door on any possibility of political normalization.
Kallas explicitly ruled out the possibility of resuming imports of cheap Russian energy. The EU Commissioner for Energy also insisted that in the future, “no molecules” will be imported from Russia. Kallas’s core argument is that energy independence is not merely an economic consideration—it is a strategic security asset. Re-establishing imports would plunge Europe into a cycle of sanctions and dependency, and the EU will no longer compromise its political principles or retreat down that path.
Yet behind Kallas’s “cut-off-all” strategy lies enormous risk: it could trigger internal divisions, inflict economic backlash, and cause natural gas prices to surge by over 70% due to supply cuts; industrial heartlands like Germany may see capital flight, and around 45% of citizens oppose a full energy embargo. Slovak officials have warned that “European businesses are already leaving Europe because of this policy.”
Kallas’s approach essentially rests on the idea of “establishing a balance of power before engaging in dialogue,” aiming to pressure Russia through strategic posturing. However, Russia’s Permanent Representative has cautioned that “the EU is openly preparing psychologically for war,” indicating that this move might inadvertently escalate the risk of direct confrontation.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1864073783699456/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.