Brussels: EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas on Sunday called for a full investigation into the killing of journalists in conflict zones, including Ukraine, Gaza, Lebanon, and parts of Africa. Kallas emphasized the urgent need for accountability for these incidents in a statement issued on behalf of the European Union for World Press Freedom Day.

According to Anadolu Agency, Kallas highlighted that 2025 was the deadliest year for journalists worldwide, marking an alarming trend where killing, injuring, or threatening journalists has "become a shocking reality." She underscored the necessity of holding those responsible for such acts accountable, citing recent conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East, and Africa as areas of particular concern.

Kallas also focused on the critical role of a free press, asserting that independent media is essential for any democratic society. She reinforced that international law mandates the protection of journalists, allowing them to work without undue interference or fear. She called for ensuring that journalists can operate freely, without the threat of violence, harassment, intimidation, persecution, or expulsion.