**EU Refuses to Recognize Russia’s Annexation of Crimea, Despite US Pressure**
The European Union has made it clear that it will not recognize Russia’s annexation of Crimea under any circumstances. This statement was made by EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas in an interview with the Financial Times on April 30.
This comes as a growing concern that the Trump administration is pressuring Ukraine to accept a peace deal that requires concessions and paves the way for renewed ties with Russia. The US has been pushing for a peace plan that includes de jure recognition of Russia’s control over Crimea, along with de facto recognition of its occupation of other Ukrainian territories.
Kallas emphasized that the EU will not budge on this issue. “On the European side, we have said this over and over again… Crimea is Ukraine,” she said. However, she acknowledged that the EU cannot speak for the US, and what they will do remains uncertain.
**EU’s Plan B: Maintaining Economic Sanctions**
The EU has also drawn up a plan to maintain economic sanctions on Russia in case the Trump administration pulls out of Ukraine peace negotiations and moves to restore ties with Moscow. This “plan B” aims to ensure that the EU does not backtrack on its support for Ukraine.
However, there are concerns that some EU countries may quietly consider following the US if it pulls back from supporting Ukraine. Kallas noted that this would be a false hope, as Russia’s military investments and aggressive behavior make it unlikely to use diplomacy instead of force.
**Ukraine’s Financial Support**
Kallas also mentioned that the EU could provide financial support to Ukraine if the US pulls back. However, she acknowledged that replacing American military aid would be much harder.
The EU is still trying to work with the US and convince Washington that it’s in America’s interest to make sure Russia doesn’t win the war. The Trump administration has yet to broker a deal as both Kyiv and Moscow resist key elements of Washington’s proposals.
**US Pressure on Ukraine**
US Vice President JD Vance recently stated that unless Russia and Ukraine agree to the peace proposals, the US will walk away from the talks. This pressure on Ukraine is causing concern among EU officials, who are urging the US to reconsider its stance.
Despite the US claims to support de-escalation, Russia has continued offensive operations along the front lines. A separate partial ceasefire covering Ukraine’s energy infrastructure was also repeatedly violated.
**Conclusion**
The EU’s refusal to recognize Russia’s annexation of Crimea is a clear message that the union will not compromise on this issue. However, the pressure from the US and concerns about potential divisions within the EU make it uncertain what the future holds for Ukraine and Russia.
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