Kallas' reaction to Russia's hybrid attacks: Kremlin puts life at risk

Kallas made a statement to the press after the 10th meeting of the EU-Moldova Association Council held in Brussels, together with EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos and Moldovan Prime Minister Vasile Tofan.

Stating that Europe has faced an increase in hybrid attacks, sabotage attempts and airspace violations originating from Russia in recent weeks, Kallas reminded that Russian missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles violated Moldovan airspace once again over the weekend.

"The Kremlin is putting people's lives at risk across the continent."

Kallas stated that this was absolutely unacceptable and said, "The Kremlin is risking the lives of people across the continent." he said.

Defining the purpose behind these actions of Moscow as "creating fear and paralyzing decision-making mechanisms", Kallas stated that the EU responded to this with endurance and support for Ukraine.

Kallas also touched upon rising energy prices and said that the problem does not concern only EU members, but that they continue discussions on the issue with partners.

Stating that they continue to support Moldova's infrastructure within the scope of the EU Growth Plan, Kallas said, "Today, we are transferring a new tranche worth 157 million euros. Moldova is moving steadily towards the EU single market." he said.

"You can trust us"

Marta Kos, Member of the EU Commission Responsible for Enlargement, stated that Moldova can trust the EU and that the membership process can take place during the current prime minister's term of office.

Noting that efforts should be intensified to ensure that the Growth Plan creates a concrete and tangible change, Kos said, "If Moldova continues to progress in this direction, it can receive a resource of over 500 million euros within the scope of the Growth Plan this year alone." he said.

"Our target is membership in 2030"

Moldovan Prime Minister Vasile Tofan stated that they are continuing their efforts to open the remaining chapter groups in the negotiation process by the end of the year and meet the intermediate criteria on time, adding: "Our goal is to complete the technical studies necessary to complete the negotiations by the beginning of 2028 and to prepare Moldova for membership by 2030." he said.

Pointing out that this is an ambitious calendar, Tofan continued as follows:

"We do not want standards to be lowered or shortcuts to be taken. We believe in a predictable and merit-based process where progress on reforms follows progress in negotiations."

Tofan noted that the possibility of Moldova joining the EU one day is seen as low by many people and said, "But today, we are talking about real timetables for us to join the big European family. This is the historical mission of an entire generation." he said.