Brussels: EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas is planning to present the "most far-reaching sanctions list" against Russia in the coming months. "In the fall, I will present the most far-reaching sanctions list since the beginning of the war. If it is adopted, the number of sanctioned Russian individuals, companies, and organizations will immediately increase by one-third," Kallas told German newspaper Welt in an interview published Monday.

According to Anadolu Agency, Kallas emphasized the necessity to intensify pressure on Russia, highlighting that a sanctions bill passed by the US Senate in early August signals a potential alignment between Europe and the United States on the issue. Kallas pointed out the growing hybrid threats Europe faces, including sabotage, espionage, and cyberattacks, most of which are attributed to Moscow. She raised concerns about recent violations of Polish and Romanian airspace by Russian missiles and drones, interpreting them as tests of resolve and defenses.

Kallas stressed that such incidents are unacceptable and demonstrate Moscow's increasing boldness, warning that a weak response could lead to more occurrences. She expressed support for Germany's reform plans for its intelligence services, noting their importance in responding effectively to hybrid threats.

In addition to the situation with Russia, Kallas commented on the ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve tensions between the US and Iran. She acknowledged that the talks are active but uncertain, emphasizing the global consequences of the Strait of Hormuz closure. Kallas underscored the importance of maintaining unrestricted freedom of navigation and prioritizing the reopening of Hormuz while also addressing Iran's nuclear weapons agenda.

Regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Kallas reiterated that a two-state solution is the only viable long-term resolution. She assured that efforts are ongoing to preserve this prospect through EU missions and highlighted the potential of the US-backed Gaza peace plan. However, she cautioned that increasing settler violence and the stalled disarmament progress of Hamas are hindering advancements towards peace.