Russian MP Calls for Exclusion of EU Foreign Policy Chief Kallas from Ukraine Peace Talks

A senior Russian lawmaker has criticized EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas, arguing that politicians like her should be excluded from Ukraine peace negotiations. Leonid Slutsky, head of the State Duma's international affairs committee and leader of the LDPR Party, contended that Kallas cannot serve as an impartial negotiator due to her stated opposition to Russian interests. His remarks came in response to Kallas's statement that the European Union would push for limitations on Russian military capabilities in any Ukraine talks. Slutsky accused Kallas of making anti-Russian statements and claimed that such politicians lack the objectivity necessary for constructive peace negotiations. He further asserted that European attempts to force their way into the negotiation process through ultimatums are destined to fail, arguing that Kallas's efforts are aimed at prolonging the Ukraine conflict rather than resolving it. The Russian legislator suggested that Kallas's diplomatic position has been compromised by her stance on the conflict.