EU foreign policy chief warns of 'tremendous cost' if Mideast conflict returns to full-scale war

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned Monday that a return to full-scale war in the Middle East would impose a 'tremendous cost' on the region, calling for renewed negotiations as the ceasefire between Iran and Israel collapsed. Speaking during an EU defense ministers meeting in Nicosia, she emphasized the need for all parties to return to the negotiation table, citing the region’s instability. Kallas highlighted global pressures on freedom of navigation, announcing the EU’s first use of its new sanctions regime against Iranian individuals and entities disrupting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. She stated the bloc would apply these measures again where necessary and reaffirmed support for Operation Aspides in the Red Sea, which could later assist the France-Britain coalition in the strait. The defense ministers also demonstrated unity in supporting Ukraine, with Kallas revealing over 80 new sanctions targeting Russia’s military-industrial complex, human rights violators, and propagandists. These measures are set for approval next week during the Foreign Affairs Council. Additionally, Kallas announced a €90 billion ($103 billion) EU loan package for Ukraine, with the first €5.9 billion earmarked for drone procurement this month. She stressed deeper industrial cooperation with Ukraine, particularly in air defense, while reaffirming the bloc’s commitment to pressure Russia.