(MENAFN) EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said Monday that the next several days may represent a decisive stage in diplomatic efforts surrounding the conflict in Ukraine, following what she described—citing reports—as “difficult but productive” discussions in the United States on the contours of a possible peace arrangement.

Before meeting with EU defense ministers in Brussels, she noted that the gathering would center on reinforcing military assistance to Ukraine and improving the European Union’s own defense capabilities.

Kallas stressed the urgency of bolstering Ukraine’s ability to defend itself, arguing that Moscow shows no intention of pursuing peace. "It is clear that Russia does not want peace, and therefore we need to make Ukraine as stronger as possible in order for them to be ready to stand up for themselves in this very, very difficult time," she said.

Calling the week ahead potentially decisive, Kallas referenced ongoing negotiations in Washington. "It could be a pivotal week for diplomacy. We heard yesterday that the talks in America were difficult but productive. We don't know the results yet," she said, noting that Ukraine’s defense and foreign ministers would update EU officials during the meeting.

According to general accounts from Ukrainian officials, discussions held Sunday in Florida focused heavily on how a potential peace accord might define the practical boundary between Ukrainian- and Russian-controlled territory. After the session, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the meeting as "productive" and "successful" as work on a peace framework continues.

When asked whether she believed Washington would deliver an outcome favorable to Kyiv, Kallas emphasized that the ultimate responsibility lies with Ukraine itself. "Ukrainians are there alone. If they would be together with the Europeans, they would definitely be much stronger. But I trust that Ukraine has stand up for themselves," she said.

Addressing Belgium’s reluctance to use revenue generated from frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine, Kallas acknowledged that the country has “legitimate concerns,” while stressing that other EU members are prepared to share the associated risks.

She also underscored that Kyiv should not be the only party facing increased expectations. "If there is going to be pressure on Ukraine's army, which hasn’t invaded anybody, then there should also be pressure on the Russian army," she said.

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