The United States, China, as well as the aggressor country of the Russian Federation are critical of the European Union because of its strength and unity as a bloc. This was stated on May 17 by the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas at the international conference Lenart Meri Conference 2026, which was broadcast on YouTube.
According to her, when EU countries act together, they become an “equal force” on the international stage, which makes it difficult for external players to interact with Europe. But it is much easier to negotiate with individual, less influential states. That’s why Washington, Beijing or Moscow “don’t like” Brussels.
She also emphasized the risks of bilateral agreements between individual EU countries and the United States, China or Russia, which, according to her, could weaken the overall position of the European Union.
Separately, Callas drew attention to the growing distance in mutual perception between Europe and the United States. She cited polling data according to which supposedly only 14% of Europeans consider the United States an ally, while among Americans this figure is approximately 42%.
“And this is worrying because it is not the United States or Europe that benefits from this, but our adversaries, because we are stronger when we are together as great allies. Therefore, I think we should not give in to this, because in fact we need each other – our economies are very closely intertwined, as is our security,” the official added.
