EU Criticizes Trump’s 50-Day Deadline for Putin, Urges Swift Action to End War
Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Vice-President of the European Commission, has voiced concern over U.S. President Donald Trump’s ultimatum to Russian President Vladimir Putin, which demands that Moscow engage in peace talks with Ukraine within 50 days or face heavy sanctions.
The Gaze reports on this with reference to The Telegraph.
While Kallas acknowledged Trump's firm stance on Russia, she cautioned that the 50-day window was excessively long, especially in light of the ongoing suffering and loss of innocent lives due to the war.
In comments to the press, Kallas stated, “On one hand it is very positive that President Trump is taking on a strong stance on Russia. On the other hand, 50 days is a very long time if we see that they [Russia] are killing innocent civilians.”
Trump’s announcement included a threat to impose 100% tariffs on Russia’s primary trading partners if Putin fails to engage in meaningful peace negotiations by the end of the 50-day period.
At the same time, the U.S. unveiled plans to send billions of dollars’ worth of military aid to Ukraine, including cutting-edge weapons systems, with NATO allies covering the cost.
Trump, alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, explained that the U.S. would manufacture the weapons and NATO countries would pay for them.
Kallas also emphasized the need for further pressure on Russia, urging that all allies, including the U.S., must work to push Putin toward peace.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, after meeting with his EU counterpart Pete Hegseth on Monday, acknowledged that the delivery of critical equipment, including the Patriot missile defense systems, is expected to take months before they arrive in Ukraine. While these systems are essential for Ukraine’s defense, their deployment will be delayed due to logistical challenges.
Read more on The Gaze: New Sanctions against Russia – How they Reduce its Ability to Wage War