{"id":1955450,"date":"2026-05-26T10:40:22","date_gmt":"2026-05-26T07:40:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1955450"},"modified":"2026-05-26T10:40:22","modified_gmt":"2026-05-26T07:40:22","slug":"viral-posts-distort-kaja-kallas-remarks-on-china-and-russia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1955450","title":{"rendered":"Viral posts distort Kaja Kallas\u2019 remarks on China and Russia"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/26\/44\/1200x675_cmsv2_23233094-5c04-5faf-9efa-d7e2196dde64-9772644.jpg&#8221;]<\/p>\n<article id=\"abe-2896642-pos1-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1\" data-nid=\"2896642\" data-cid=\"9772530\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896642-label-pos1-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/25\/30\/189x106_cmsv2_2863a801-c50a-5685-8f4c-4d75a7ff4aac-9772530.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"A worker picks tomatoes hanging from vines in the family-run Lans greenhouses in Maasdijk, Netherlands.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Europe News<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Sixteen EU countries seek more regional funds in long-term budget\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2896689-pos2-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1\" data-nid=\"2896689\" data-cid=\"9772834\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896689-label-pos2-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/28\/34\/189x106_cmsv2_d50c1d7f-9d21-554b-93a8-a73a4c75397f-9772834.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Metallica wants your blood... Rock band urge fans to donate blood ahead of UK tour\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Culture news<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Rockers Metallica urging fans to donate blood on last leg of EU tour\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2896665-pos3-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1\" data-nid=\"2896665\" data-cid=\"9772821\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896665-label-pos3-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/27\/11\/189x106_cmsv2_7f511353-6636-53cc-bb28-93d655d257ef-9772711.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"The headquarters in Palau-solit\u00e0 i Plegamans (Barcelona)\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Art<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Andic quits as Mango vice-chair but insists he is innocent\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2896683-pos4-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-1 m-modeDesktop-1 m-modeXL-1 the-media-object--has-video\" data-nid=\"2896683\" data-cid=\"9772804\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896683-label-pos4-c-latest-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/28\/04\/189x106_cmsv2_0c69d0f8-c541-502f-90f1-829271e8a4c9-9772804.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Rescue workers on the scene of a crash between a train and vehicle in Buggenhout, Belgium\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    No Comment<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    First footage released after deadly train and school minibus crash in Belgium\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2896642-pos1-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2\" data-nid=\"2896642\" data-cid=\"9772530\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896642-label-pos1-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/25\/30\/189x106_cmsv2_2863a801-c50a-5685-8f4c-4d75a7ff4aac-9772530.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"A worker picks tomatoes hanging from vines in the family-run Lans greenhouses in Maasdijk, Netherlands.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Europe News<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Sixteen EU countries seek more regional funds in long-term budget\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2896689-pos2-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2\" data-nid=\"2896689\" data-cid=\"9772834\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896689-label-pos2-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/28\/34\/189x106_cmsv2_d50c1d7f-9d21-554b-93a8-a73a4c75397f-9772834.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Metallica wants your blood... Rock band urge fans to donate blood ahead of UK tour\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Culture news<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Rockers Metallica urging fans to donate blood on last leg of EU tour\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2896665-pos3-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2\" data-nid=\"2896665\" data-cid=\"9772821\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896665-label-pos3-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/27\/11\/189x106_cmsv2_7f511353-6636-53cc-bb28-93d655d257ef-9772711.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"The headquarters in Palau-solit\u00e0 i Plegamans (Barcelona)\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    Art<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Andic quits as Mango vice-chair but insists he is innocent\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2896683-pos4-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--has-video\" data-nid=\"2896683\" data-cid=\"9772804\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896683-label-pos4-c-latest-stories-sidebar\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/28\/04\/189x106_cmsv2_0c69d0f8-c541-502f-90f1-829271e8a4c9-9772804.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Rescue workers on the scene of a crash between a train and vehicle in Buggenhout, Belgium\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n                    No Comment<\/p>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    First footage released after deadly train and school minibus crash in Belgium\n  <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"helper-site-row o-article-newsy\">\n<div class=\"helper-site-container o-article-newsy__container\">\n<div class=\"o-article-newsy__main\">\n<header class=\"h-grid o-article-newsy__main__header\">\n<nav aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\" class=\"c-article-breadcrumbs\">\n<div id=\"adb-article-breadcrumb\" class=\"c-article-breadcrumbs__list\">\n<p>                          Europe<\/p>\n<p>                          Europe Decoded<\/p>\n<p>                          The Cube<\/p><\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<h1 class=\"c-article-redesign-title\">\n                            Viral posts distort Kaja Kallas\u2019 remarks on China and Russia<\/h1>\n<div class=\"c-article-image-video u-position-relative \">\n<div class=\"js-superdiv u-aspect-ratio-16x9 u-position-relative \" data-sponsored=\"Partner content\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"js-poster-img c-article-media__img\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/26\/44\/1536x864_cmsv2_23233094-5c04-5faf-9efa-d7e2196dde64-9772644.jpg\" width=\"1536\" height=\"864\" loading=\"eager\" alt=\"European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas speaks with the media as she arrives for a meeting of EU foreign ministers at the European Council building, Monday, 2026. \"><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-caption u-position-absolute\"><i id=\"article-caption-content\" class=\"c-article-caption__content\"><span class=\"c-article-caption__text\"><br \/>\n              European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas speaks with the media as she arrives for a meeting of EU foreign ministers at the European Council building, Monday, 2026.<br \/>\n                    <span class=\"u-color-white\">&#8211;\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"c-article-caption__copyright\">Copyright\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"c-article-caption__credit\">AP Photo<\/span><\/span><\/i><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-image-copyright c-article-image-copyright--novideo\">\n      Copyright\u00a0AP Photo\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"h-grid o-article-newsy__main__body u-article-content\">\n<div class=\"o-article-newsy__contributors-publication-date\">\n<div class=\"c-article-contributors\">\n  By&amp;nbspTamsin Paternoster&amp;nbsp&amp;&amp;nbsp<b>Noa Schumann<\/b><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-publication-date\" data-timestamp=\"1779792022\">\n         Published on<br \/>\n            <time datetime=\"2026-05-26 12:40:22 +02:00\">26\/05\/2026 &#8211; 12:40 GMT+2<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire u-align-items-center u-display-flex\"><span class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire__links u-align-items-center u-display-flex u-justify-content-center js-c-article-partage-commentaire-share\"><span>Share<\/span><\/span><span>Comments<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire-popup-overlay js-c-article-partage-commentaire-popup-overlay u-display-none\">\n<div id=\"js-c-article-partage-commentaire-popup\" class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire-popup js-c-article-partage-commentaire-popup\">\n<div class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire-popup__header u-display-flex\"><span>Share<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/icon-close.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"Close Button\" class=\"u-cursor-pointer js-c-article-partage-commentaire-close\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire-popup__content u-display-flex\">\n<div id=\"partage-commentaire-popup-content-container\" class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire-popup__content__container u-display-flex\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-facebook.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"facebook\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Facebook<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-facebook.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"facebook\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-twitter.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"twitter\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Twitter<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-twitter.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"twitter\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-flipboard.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"flipboard\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Flipboard<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-flipboard.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"flipboard\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-send.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"send\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Send<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-send.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"send\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-reddit.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"reddit\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Reddit<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-reddit.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"reddit\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-linkedin.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"linkedin\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Linkedin<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-linkedin.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"linkedin\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-messenger.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"messenger\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Messenger<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-messenger.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"messenger\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-telegram.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"telegram\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Telegram<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-telegram.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"telegram\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-vk.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"vk\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>VK<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-vk.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"vk\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-bluesky.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"bluesky\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Bluesky<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-bluesky.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"bluesky\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-threads.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"threads\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Threads<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-threads.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"threads\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><span class=\"u-display-flex u-gap-1 u-show-for-mobile-only\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-whatsapp.svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" alt=\"whatsapp\" loading=\"lazy\"><span>Whatsapp<\/span><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/vector\/social-icons\/article-redesign-whatsapp.svg\" width=\"48\" height=\"48\" alt=\"whatsapp\" class=\"u-show-for-desktop\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"c-article-summary\">\n        Online posts have taken Kallas\u2019 comments on China out of context.<br \/>\n    <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-article-content js-article-content\">\n<p>Posts and headlines circulating online have accused EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas of calling China a \u201ccancer\u201d and making warmongering remarks about Russia and Beijing. <\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-ad u-show-for-mobile-only\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt loading=\"lazy\"><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-ad u-show-for-desktop\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt loading=\"lazy\"><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>One widely shared post claimed that Kallas \u201cjust described China as a \u2018disease\u2019, specifically \u2018cancer\u2019\u201d, whilst a headline from Brussels Signal read, \u201cEU top diplomat Kaja Kallas calls China a \u2018cancer&#8217;.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Separate posts on X, one with millions of views, also attributed the quote \u201cIf Europe cannot defeat Russia, how then are we supposed to defeat China?\u201d to the EU\u2019s top diplomat. <\/p>\n<p>But a closer examination of Kallas\u2019 remarks shows that, while the comments could be considered controversial, some online users presented them sensationalised and out of context. <\/p>\n<p>The first comment was made by Kallas on 17 May during the Lennart Meri Conference held in Estonia. The wide-ranging conversation looked at Europe\u2019s response to China\u2019s growing economic influence, industrial competition and trade practices. <\/p>\n<p>During the exchange, the moderator argued that China was increasingly dominating industries, ranging from batteries and electric vehicles to industrial goods. He added he had not yet seen a &#8220;coherent European response to the China challenge.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Kallas replied that countries around the world were increasingly concerned about what she described as China&#8217;s &#8220;coercive economic practices&#8221;, before turning to a medical metaphor to refer to Europe&#8217;s response. <\/p>\n<p>\u201cWe have a very clear understanding of the diagnosis of the disease, but we don\u2019t have agreement on the cure,\u201d Kallas said. <\/p>\n<p>She continued: \u201cIf you have a very, very difficult disease, like you have cancer, then you have two choices \u2014 either you increase the morphine or you start chemotherapy.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Kallas later explained that \u201cmorphine\u201d referred to subsidies helping European companies compete against Chinese imports, while \u201cchemotherapy\u201d referred to tougher EU measures that could trigger retaliation from Beijing. <\/p>\n<p>So while critics interpreted the remarks as Kallas portraying China itself as the disease, the bloc\u2019s foreign policy chief did not literally call China a \u201ccancer\u201d, with her comments forming part of a wider discussion about how Europe should respond to Chinese trade pressure and economic competition.<\/p>\n<p>The moderator at the event, associate editor at the Financial Times, Edward Luce, later posted on X that the posts were a \u201cbad misrepresentation of her analogy.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The Commission welcomed the moderator\u2019s clarification, while noting the importance of maintaining open dialogue with China to effectively address the mounting economic challenges.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Kallas accused of \u2018warmongering\u2019<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>In separate viral posts, social media users also accused Kallas of \u201cwarmongering\u201d by attributing the quote: \u201cIf Europe cannot defeat Russia, how then are we supposed to defeat China?\u201d to her. <\/p>\n<p>But a closer inspection of what Kallas said shows she did not use these words. <\/p>\n<p>The comments are actually from a discussion hosted by the Hudson Institute on 27 February 2025, where Kallas discussed transatlantic relationships and the need for Europe to meet current geopolitical challenges with the institute&#8217;s senior fellow, Peter Rough. <\/p>\n<p>The full clip of the discussion shows Kallas argued that failing to effectively pressure Russia over its war in Ukraine could weaken Western credibility when signalling support to &#8220;Asian counterparts&#8221; in the event of a conflict involving China. <\/p>\n<p>\u201cChina is so much bigger economy than Russia is with so much bigger military than Russia is. So if you\u2019re saying that we collectively are not able to really pressure Russia so much that it would have an effect, then how do you say that you\u2019re able to take on China risk?&#8221; Kallas said in the outdated clip presented as new footage. <\/p>\n<p>The viral wording circulating online is not a direct quote from Kallas, but a shortened paraphrase of Kallas\u2019 wider argument about Europe&#8217;s deterrence credibility. <\/p>\n<p>Extracts from the discussion have repeatedly surfaced on X presented as recent footage, without the wider context. <\/p>\n<p>The online backlash against Kallas comes at a critical time for the EU\u2019s relationship with China.<\/p>\n<p>European industries are currently dependent on China, particularly for critical raw materials necessary for defence and the region&#8217;s green energy transition, sectors in which Beijing dominates supply chains. <\/p>\n<p>Brussels has followed a policy of de-risking towards Beijing: aiming to reduce over-dependence on Chinese supply chains to protect itself from geopolitical vulnerabilities, without severing economic ties and communication completely. <\/p>\n<p>European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU Commissioners are set to discuss on Friday a range of tools the bloc could use to protect European industries from the impact of low-cost Chinese imports, amid growing trade tensions between Brussels and Beijing. <\/p>\n<p>In recent weeks, China has threatened retaliation over EU laws that limit Chinese companies&#8217; access to the single market.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>                                  Go to accessibility shortcuts<\/p>\n<div class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire u-align-items-center u-display-flex\"><span class=\"c-article-partage-commentaire__links u-align-items-center u-display-flex u-justify-content-center js-c-article-partage-commentaire-share\"><span>Share<\/span><\/span><span>Comments<\/span><\/div>\n<div id=\"adb-article-you-might-also-like\" class=\"perf-cv-auto c-article-you-might-also-like\">\n<h2 class=\"c-article-you-might-also-like__title\">\n        Read more<br \/>\n      <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-article-you-might-also-like__item\">\n<h3>\n<p>                  Orb\u00e1n-style vetoes undermine EU democracy, Kaja Kallas tells Euronews hoping for reset<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-you-might-also-like__item\">\n<h3>\n<p>                  Kallas tells Euronews Moscow must be forced to make real concessions as Brussels mulls special envoy<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-article-you-might-also-like__item\">\n<h3>\n<p>                  Europe Today: Exclusive interview with Kaja Kallas, EU foreign affairs chief<\/p>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"perf-cv-auto\">\n<ul id=\"adb-article-tags\" class=\"c-tags-list\">\n<li class=\"c-tags-list__item\">\n<section class=\"tc-cta\" data-twig-component=\"Cta-default\">\n  Kaja Kallas<br \/>\n<\/section>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"c-tags-list__item\">\n<section class=\"tc-cta\" data-twig-component=\"Cta-default\">\n  China<br \/>\n<\/section>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"c-tags-list__item\">\n<section class=\"tc-cta\" data-twig-component=\"Cta-default\">\n  TheCube<br \/>\n<\/section>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"c-tags-list__item\">\n<section class=\"tc-cta\" data-twig-component=\"Cta-default\">\n  EU-China<br \/>\n<\/section>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"o-article-newsy__aside\">\n<div class=\"c-ad-wrapper o-article-newsy__aside__content-1\" data-ad-name=\"adzone-halfpage\">\n<div class=\"c-ad c-ad-halfpage u-show-for-desktop\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-ad u-show-for-mobile-only\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"adb-article-top-stories\" class=\"perf-cv-auto c-top-stories\">\n<h2 class=\"c-top-stories__title\">Top stories<\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-top-stories__item\">\n<article id=\"abe-2896661-pos2-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896661\" data-cid=\"9772683\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896661-label-pos2-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/26\/83\/320x180_cmsv2_c56b3423-9f8d-5b7c-b07d-daa0c630fac0-9772683.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Rescue workers on the scene of a crash between a train and vehicle in Buggenhout, 26 May, 2026\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \"><span class=\"c-article-title__prefix--red\">Breaking news.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>    Four dead, two injured after train hits school bus in Belgium<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-top-stories__item\">\n<article id=\"abe-2896683-pos3-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896683\" data-cid=\"9772804\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896683-label-pos3-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/28\/04\/320x180_cmsv2_0c69d0f8-c541-502f-90f1-829271e8a4c9-9772804.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Rescue workers on the scene of a crash between a train and vehicle in Buggenhout, Belgium\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    First footage released after deadly train and school minibus crash in Belgium<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-top-stories__item\">\n<article id=\"abe-2896579-pos4-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896579\" data-cid=\"9772348\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896579-label-pos4-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/23\/48\/320x180_cmsv2_9e94ded1-2bd1-5aae-ade9-17d1d15defba-9772348.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"The playground of a school in Strasbourg, in eastern France, on Monday 2 November 2020.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Sexual abuse in Paris after-school care: Youth worker on trial<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-top-stories__item\">\n<article id=\"abe-2896380-pos5-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896380\" data-cid=\"9771426\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896380-label-pos5-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/14\/26\/320x180_cmsv2_be34bf38-a032-5c67-8af3-f2d86d2bd25e-9771426.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Europe in Motion\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Iran war: How have some airlines managed to cut flight prices?<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-top-stories__item\">\n<article id=\"abe-2896670-pos6-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896670\" data-cid=\"9772742\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896670-label-pos6-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/27\/42\/320x180_cmsv2_8606297b-f2ec-5bda-9d9a-f1eca9b658bb-9772742.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"A family sits on the balcony of a heavily damaged apartment building in Beirut&apos;s southern suburbs, 25 April, 2026\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    At least 12 killed in Israeli strike on village in eastern Lebanon<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"perf-cv-auto c-ad-wrapper o-article-newsy__aside__content-2\" data-ad-name=\"adzone-halfpage\">\n<div class=\"c-ad c-ad-halfpage u-show-for-desktop\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-ad u-show-for-mobile-only\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"perf-cv-auto c-most-viewed\">\n<h2 class=\"c-most-viewed__title qa-section-title\">Most read<\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-most-viewed__list\">\n<div class=\"c-most-viewed__item\"><span class=\"c-most-viewed__item__number\">1<\/span><\/p>\n<article id=\"abe-2896341-pos1-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896341\" data-cid=\"9771287\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Father of abandoned French children found in Portugal breaks silence<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-most-viewed__item\"><span class=\"c-most-viewed__item__number\">2<\/span><\/p>\n<article id=\"abe-2896462-pos2-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896462\" data-cid=\"9771735\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Two suspected Ebola cases detected in Italy test negative<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-most-viewed__item\"><span class=\"c-most-viewed__item__number\">3<\/span><\/p>\n<article id=\"abe-2896428-pos3-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896428\" data-cid=\"9771560\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    These are the best countries to move to around the world<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-most-viewed__item\"><span class=\"c-most-viewed__item__number\">4<\/span><\/p>\n<article id=\"abe-2896521-pos4-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896521\" data-cid=\"9772124\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Jewels, watches and cash in golf bags seized in Zapatero case<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-most-viewed__item\"><span class=\"c-most-viewed__item__number\">5<\/span><\/p>\n<article id=\"abe-2895789-pos5-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2895789\" data-cid=\"9769066\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Where in Europe do households save most of their income?<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"perf-cv-auto c-ad-wrapper o-article-newsy__aside__content-3\" data-ad-name=\"adzone-halfpage\">\n<div class=\"c-ad c-ad-halfpage u-show-for-desktop\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-ad u-show-for-mobile-only\">\n<div class=\"c-ad__placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"c-ad__placeholder__logo\" src=\"https:\/\/static.euronews.com\/website\/images\/logos\/logo-euronews-stacked-outlined-72x72-grey-9.svg\" width=\"72\" height=\"72\" alt><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2896661-pos2-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896661\" data-cid=\"9772683\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896661-label-pos2-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/26\/83\/320x180_cmsv2_c56b3423-9f8d-5b7c-b07d-daa0c630fac0-9772683.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Rescue workers on the scene of a crash between a train and vehicle in Buggenhout, 26 May, 2026\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \"><span class=\"c-article-title__prefix--red\">Breaking news.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>    Four dead, two injured after train hits school bus in Belgium<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2896683-pos3-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896683\" data-cid=\"9772804\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896683-label-pos3-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/28\/04\/320x180_cmsv2_0c69d0f8-c541-502f-90f1-829271e8a4c9-9772804.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Rescue workers on the scene of a crash between a train and vehicle in Buggenhout, Belgium\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    First footage released after deadly train and school minibus crash in Belgium<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2896579-pos4-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896579\" data-cid=\"9772348\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896579-label-pos4-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/23\/48\/320x180_cmsv2_9e94ded1-2bd1-5aae-ade9-17d1d15defba-9772348.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"The playground of a school in Strasbourg, in eastern France, on Monday 2 November 2020.\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Sexual abuse in Paris after-school care: Youth worker on trial<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2896380-pos5-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896380\" data-cid=\"9771426\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896380-label-pos5-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/14\/26\/320x180_cmsv2_be34bf38-a032-5c67-8af3-f2d86d2bd25e-9771426.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Europe in Motion\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Iran war: How have some airlines managed to cut flight prices?<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2896670-pos6-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-2 m-modeDesktop-2 m-modeXL-2 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896670\" data-cid=\"9772742\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<figure id=\"abe-2896670-label-pos6-top-stories\" class=\"the-media-object__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"the-media-object__image\" src=\"https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/27\/42\/320x180_cmsv2_8606297b-f2ec-5bda-9d9a-f1eca9b658bb-9772742.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"A family sits on the balcony of a heavily damaged apartment building in Beirut&apos;s southern suburbs, 25 April, 2026\" height=\"9\" width=\"16\"><\/figure>\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    At least 12 killed in Israeli strike on village in eastern Lebanon<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2896341-pos1-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--has-video the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896341\" data-cid=\"9771287\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Father of abandoned French children found in Portugal breaks silence<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2896462-pos2-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896462\" data-cid=\"9771735\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Two suspected Ebola cases detected in Italy test negative<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2896428-pos3-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896428\" data-cid=\"9771560\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    These are the best countries to move to around the world<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2896521-pos4-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2896521\" data-cid=\"9772124\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Jewels, watches and cash in golf bags seized in Zapatero case<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"abe-2895789-pos5-mostViewed\" class=\"the-media-object m-modeMobile-3 m-modeDesktop-3 m-modeXL-3 the-media-object--no-label\" data-nid=\"2895789\" data-cid=\"9769066\" data-part-label=\"Partner content\">\n<div class=\"the-media-object__content\">\n<h3 class=\"the-media-object__title  \">\n<p>    Where in Europe do households save most of their income?<br \/>\n  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"articleBody\" data-key=\"articleBody\">Posts and headlines circulating online have accused EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas of calling China a \u201ccancer\u201d and making warmongering remarks about Russia and Beijing.\u00a0One widely shared post claimed that Kallas \u201cjust described China as a \u2018disease\u2019, specifically \u2018cancer\u2019\u201d, whilst a headline from Brussels Signal read, \u201cEU top diplomat Kaja Kallas calls China a \u2018cancer&#8217;.\u201dSeparate posts on X, one with millions of views, also attributed the quote \u201cIf Europe cannot defeat Russia, how then are we supposed to defeat China?\u201d to the EU\u2019s top diplomat.\u00a0But a closer examination of Kallas\u2019 remarks shows that, while the comments could be considered controversial, some online users presented them sensationalised and out of context.The first comment was made by Kallas on 17 May during the Lennart Meri Conference held in Estonia. The wide-ranging conversation looked at Europe\u2019s response to China\u2019s growing economic influence, industrial competition and trade practices.During the exchange, the moderator argued that China was increasingly dominating industries, ranging from batteries and electric vehicles to industrial goods. He added he had not yet seen a &#8220;coherent European response to the China challenge.&#8221;Kallas replied that countries around the world were increasingly concerned about what she described as China&#8217;s &#8220;coercive economic practices&#8221;, before turning to a medical metaphor to refer to Europe&#8217;s response.\u201cWe have a very clear understanding of the diagnosis of the disease, but we don\u2019t have agreement on the cure,\u201d Kallas said.\u00a0She continued: \u201cIf you have a very, very difficult disease, like you have cancer, then you have two choices \u2014 either you increase the morphine or you start chemotherapy.\u201dKallas later explained that \u201cmorphine\u201d referred to subsidies helping European companies compete against Chinese imports, while \u201cchemotherapy\u201d referred to tougher EU measures that could trigger retaliation from Beijing.\u00a0So while critics interpreted the remarks as Kallas portraying China itself as the disease, the bloc\u2019s foreign policy chief did not literally call China a \u201ccancer\u201d, with her comments forming part of a wider discussion about how Europe should respond to Chinese trade pressure and economic competition.The moderator at the event, associate editor at the Financial Times, Edward Luce, later posted on X that the posts were a \u201cbad misrepresentation of her analogy.\u201dThe Commission welcomed the moderator\u2019s clarification, while noting the importance of maintaining open dialogue with China to effectively address the mounting economic challenges.Kallas accused of \u2018warmongering\u2019In separate viral posts, social media users also accused Kallas of \u201cwarmongering\u201d by attributing the quote: \u201cIf Europe cannot defeat Russia, how then are we supposed to defeat China?\u201d to her.\u00a0But a closer inspection of what Kallas said shows she did not use these words.\u00a0The comments are actually from a discussion hosted by the Hudson Institute on 27 February 2025, where Kallas discussed transatlantic relationships and the need for Europe to meet current geopolitical challenges with the institute&#8217;s senior fellow, Peter Rough.The full clip of the discussion shows Kallas argued that failing to effectively pressure Russia over its war in Ukraine could weaken Western credibility when signalling support to &#8220;Asian counterparts&#8221; in the event of a conflict involving China.\u201cChina is so much bigger economy than Russia is with so much bigger military than Russia is. So if you\u2019re saying that we collectively are not able to really pressure Russia so much that it would have an effect, then how do you say that you\u2019re able to take on China risk?&#8221; Kallas said in the outdated clip presented as new footage.\u00a0The viral wording circulating online is not a direct quote from Kallas, but a shortened paraphrase of Kallas\u2019 wider argument about Europe&#8217;s deterrence credibility.Extracts from the discussion have repeatedly surfaced on X presented as recent footage, without the wider context.\u00a0The online backlash against Kallas comes at a critical time for the EU\u2019s relationship with China.European industries are currently dependent on China, particularly for critical raw materials necessary for defence and the region&#8217;s green energy transition, sectors in which Beijing dominates supply chains.Brussels has followed a policy of de-risking towards Beijing: aiming to reduce over-dependence on Chinese supply chains to protect itself from geopolitical vulnerabilities, without severing economic ties and communication completely.European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU Commissioners are set to discuss on Friday a range of tools the bloc could use to protect European industries from the impact of low-cost Chinese imports, amid growing trade tensions between Brussels and Beijing.In recent weeks, China has threatened retaliation over EU laws that limit Chinese companies&#8217; access to the single market.<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.euronews.com\/my-europe\/2026\/05\/26\/viral-posts-distort-kaja-kallas-remarks-on-china-and-russia&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/images.euronews.com\/articles\/stories\/09\/77\/26\/44\/1200x675_cmsv2_23233094-5c04-5faf-9efa-d7e2196dde64-9772644.jpg&#8221;] Europe News Sixteen EU countries seek more regional funds in long-term budget Culture news Rockers Metallica urging fans to donate blood on last leg of EU tour Art Andic quits as Mango vice-chair but insists he is innocent No Comment First footage released after deadly train and school minibus crash in Belgium [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[90],"tags":[226,36],"class_list":["post-1955450","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-international","tag-crawlmanager","tag-euronews-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1955450","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1955450"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1955450\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1955450"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1955450"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1955450"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}