Kaja Kallas warns of Russian hybrid threats during Vilnius visit

EU High Representative Kaja Kallas met with Lithuanian Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevičius in Vilnius to discuss European defense and the upcoming Lithuanian Presidency of the Council of the EU. Kallas warned that Europe must prepare for new Russian provocations, citing Lithuania's experiences with airspace violations, disinformation, and sabotage.

Kallas addressed hybrid threats, specifically noting the use of illegal migration by the Belarusian regime as a weapon against EU neighbors. She emphasized the need for concrete protection through drone action plans and the ‘Eastern Flank Watch’ initiative in coordination with NATO.

Separately, Kallas's upcoming appointment as the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy has drawn scrutiny. Critics suggest her strong stance against Moscow and her status on Russia's wanted list may limit her ability to act as a diplomatic mediator, potentially impacting the EU's capacity for dialogue with the Kremlin.