EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas came under fire from European lawmakers on Tuesday over the bloc’s response to the Middle East crisis, with MEPs warning of soaring fuel prices and accusing Brussels of failing to pursue an effective diplomatic strategy.
MEP Thomasz Froelich warned that oil prices had risen sharply and claimed European motorists could soon face fuel prices of €3 per litre, while accusing Kallas of standing by as other countries pursued diplomatic efforts.
“The oil price has since increased by 50 percent. We will soon be paying 3 euros per litre for fuel. Unacceptable. Nevertheless, the USA and Israel continue to fight. A fight they cannot win. A fight that is not in our interest,” he said.
He went on to accuse the EU foreign policy chief of failing to act as the conflict threatened wider economic consequences for Europe.
“Destabilisation of the region, waves of refugees, energy price shock, economic collapse. We bear the costs of other people’s wars. And you, Mrs Kallas, you do nothing about it. You are just a spectator, while others negotiate, like Pakistan. The world is changing, it is becoming multipolar, and unfortunately, Europe is losing its connection.”
Belgian MEP Marc Botenga also challenged Kallas, blaming the crisis on what he described as an ‘illegal attack’ by the United States against Iran and demanding that the EU condemn Washington.
“And what is the European Union doing? Where is it? No diplomatic initiative. At least try to be credible. Condemn the United States. Say that they are the problem. But you, in your discourse, you don’t even mention the United States.”
Kallas defended the EU’s response, pointing to its naval presence in the Red Sea and plans for closer cooperation with a recently launched Saudi-led maritime coalition.
“Our EU naval operation, ASPIDAS, continues to escort vessels in the Red Sea, and we will reinforce our coordination with the multinational maritime coalition that Saudi Arabia has launched recently.”
She also reiterated the EU’s position on Iran’s nuclear programme, saying Tehran must not be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon and must comply with its obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
The confrontation comes amid mounting concern in Europe over the economic fallout from the escalating Middle East conflict, with disruptions to key energy and shipping routes raising fears of higher oil, transport and consumer prices.
Source: Viory
