Kallas: Russia's train strike aimed to intimidate Western backers of Ukraine

EU High Representative Kaja Kallas has said a Russian strike on a train was intended to frighten Western nations away from backing Ukraine, describing the attack as a deliberate signal to the wider world.

Speaking in Rovaniemi, Finland, Kallas said the timing of the strike — after dignitaries had passed through — made its purpose clear. In her view, Moscow was trying to deter Western countries from supporting Ukraine and from travelling there to demonstrate solidarity.

"That was meant, it was clearly a message to the Western world," she said, adding that the question now was how the West should respond to such a signal.

Kallas argued that the appropriate answer was to act in the opposite direction, showing that Western nations remain committed to Ukraine and will not be scared off. She warned that failing to stand firm would allow Russia to achieve its objectives, which she said extend beyond the submission of Ukraine.

"We have to stand firm on this," she said, reiterating her long-held position that Russia's aims are broader than its current campaign.

Her remarks came during a visit to the Finnish city, where she was attending an event. She did not provide further operational details about the strike itself.