EU warns about risk of Russia expanding war beyond Ukraine

Rising threats and rhetoric from Moscow are being recorded in Europe

Against the backdrop of massive strikes on Kyiv, concerns are growing in European capitals that Vladimir Putin may attempt to expand the conflict beyond Ukraine.

According to Western media reports, Russia has recently intensified harsh statements toward the Baltic states, including threats against Latvia, which was accused of hosting Ukrainian drone operators. Riga has rejected these allegations.

It has also been reported that Russia’s Ministry of Defense published data on companies in several European countries allegedly involved in drone production jointly with Ukraine, warning of possible consequences and escalation if military support for Kyiv continues.

EU officials warn of possible NATO testing

European security officials do not rule out that Moscow could attempt to test NATO’s unity by selecting limited targets — ranging from the Baltic states to Alliance facilities in the Baltic region and the Arctic.

Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson said that Europe’s security situation has deteriorated over the past two years, and Russia has increasingly been using hybrid methods while shifting toward more risky actions.

According to him, European countries need to strengthen deterrence and defense capabilities to counter these threats.

US and internal European risks increase uncertainty

News agencies note that statements about a possible reduction of US military presence in Europe, as well as political signals from the United States, could weaken NATO’s deterrence factor.

Against this backdrop, EU officials fear that Russia may perceive the situation as an opportunity to increase pressure.

European politicians also warn about growing internal instability in the EU linked to the economic consequences of the war and energy-related challenges.

EU says Russia’s strategy has not changed

French Minister for Europe Benjamin Haddad stressed that Russia still seeks to reshape the continent’s security architecture. He said Europe must continue supporting Ukraine and strengthening its defense programs.

At the same time, Western intelligence agencies note that there are currently no direct signs that Russia is preparing an attack on NATO countries.

However, experts warn that the further course of the conflict depends on Moscow’s resources and internal pressure.

Intelligence assessments suggest the Russian army is suffering significant losses, which could eventually force the Kremlin to choose between continuing its current strategy or carrying out additional mobilization.

Ukraine and EU: Drone warfare is reshaping the battlefield

It is also emphasized that hostilities are increasingly shifting toward drone technologies. This is creating a "kill zone" where the traditional front line is losing its previous significance, and the war is taking on a new technological character.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told US President Donald Trump in a letter that Ukraine faces a critical shortage of air defense systems, stressing the urgency of protecting Ukrainian airspace.

The village of Hraniv in the Derhachi community of Kharkiv region is under the control of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, despite circulating claims of its alleged loss. The Ukrainian military said this information is false and is being used by the enemy for information warfare purposes.