Kaja Kallas warns that the West should brace itself for a protracted struggle in Ukraine, with all the sacrifices that entails.
For her tough stance toward Russia, Kaja Kallas has earned the moniker “Estonia’s Iron Lady.”
She told London diplomatic correspondents: “It’s always difficult to maintain unity. I’m glad we’ve been able to maintain our unity for so long.
“However, it is becoming increasingly tough because, as everyone knows, inflation is high and energy prices are high.”
She went on to say that despite the mounting cost of living crisis, Western friends should stick to their guns when it comes to Ukraine and Russia.
“Although gas is expensive, freedom is truly priceless.”
Ms Kallas is attempting to reclaim power after her coalition government was collapsed, accusing her coalition partner of battling against Estonian ideals, a reference to the Kremlin’s long-standing support.
There is a risk that if she fails to negotiate an alternate power-sharing arrangement, a more pro-Russian government may take control.
Her outspoken support for Ukraine, on the other hand, has bolstered her appeal among Estonian voters.
Allies must do more, she argued, if Vladimir Putin is to be defeated in Ukraine.
“We need to do more, in my opinion. And, as I already stated, we have made the correct decisions.
“However, for certain allies, implementation takes time, and we may be moving too slowly. They don’t have that luxury, and we must also expedite the implementation of our judgments.”
The prime minister warned that the West should prepare for a long-term fight with all the costs that entails.
“We must isolate Russia on all levels, including politically, economically, and militarily. And we must be ready for a long war in this area.”
