Story perspectives

EU's Kallas Warns of Chaos Without Restored International Law

3/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Kaja Kallas, the EU foreign policy chief, warned that erosion of international law fuels Middle East turmoil.
Speaking at the University of Zurich, she faulted the United States (U.S.), Russia, and China for undermining the international order.
Kallas linked Russia's invasion of Ukraine to impunity, warning chaos will persist without restoring international law.
She called the U.S. policy shift seismic, destabilizing transatlantic relations and shaping a new world order dominated by competition and coercive power.

History

Historical Context

The 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq, conducted without UN approval, significantly undermined international law, leading to over 100,000 civilian deaths. This action reflects a broader trend of major powers, including the U.S., Russia, and China, prioritizing national interests over global governance. Kaja Kallas's remarks underscore the lasting instability in the Middle East and the potential for escalating global conflict without adherence to international legal norms.

1 of 2

Story summary

Kaja Kallas, the EU foreign policy chief, warned that erosion of international law fuels Middle East turmoil.
Speaking at the University of Zurich, she faulted the United States (U.S.), Russia, and China for undermining the international order.
Kallas linked Russia's invasion of Ukraine to impunity, warning chaos will persist without restoring international law.
She called the U.S. policy shift seismic, destabilizing transatlantic relations and shaping a new world order dominated by competition and coercive power.

1 / 2