Kallas’s Plan Optional Says Tajani

Brussels: Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani stated on Thursday that EU High Representative Kaja Kallas’ proposal to provide Ukraine with multi-billion euro military support in 2025 is optional compared to the strategy promoted by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. “I think it will be an optional, accessory plan,” said Tajani, in contrast to von der Leyen’s strategy.

According to Ansa News Agency, Tajani emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy rather than individual initiatives. He noted the importance of considering all regions, stating, “we must also look at the southern flank, not just at the eastern one.” These remarks were made on the sidelines of a summit of the European People’s Party (EPP), of which Tajani’s Forza Italia (FI) party is a member.

The EU foreign policy chief is advocating for EU member states to fulfill a Ukrainian request for five billion euros. This request has been adjusted from a more ambitious proposal that included air defenses and missiles.