At the latest Valdai Club meeting, Russian President Vladimir Putin issued renewed threats against Ukraine and Europe, including suggestions of possible strikes on Ukrainian nuclear infrastructure. These comments coincide with intensified military actions—recent Russian attacks on the city of Slavutych raise concerns about the safety of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant and underscore the seriousness of these threats.
Meanwhile, Russia has stepped up hybrid attacks on Europe. The use of drones in the airspace of Poland, Denmark, Germany, Sweden, and Norway is seen as a significant threat to regional security. Russia’s rhetoric continues to aim at dividing the EU and the US and seeks potential negotiations with a future Donald Trump administration. Despite threats, European leaders are holding political summits in Copenhagen, discussing security, defense, Ukraine’s reconstruction, and the issue of confiscating frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine.
However, serious EU unity remains elusive—debates continue over the creation of a joint "drone wall," Ukraine’s integration into a joint security space, and mechanisms for transferring frozen Russian assets. Countries such as France, Germany, and Hungary (notably with Viktor Orban’s position) have their own interests and have delayed decision-making.
The process of Ukraine joining the EU also remains uncertain, with Hungary openly opposing expedited accession. Meanwhile, Moldova, despite Russian interference in parliamentary elections, is maintaining its pro-European course.
Russia’s hybrid war against Europe, disinformation, growing political polarization, and the economic ramifications of the war in Ukraine create a complex backdrop for the EU and NATO’s future policy directions. Ukraine is moving closer to the center of Europe’s security decisions, while the issues of confiscating Russian funds, joint air defense, and geopolitical responsibility remain high on the agenda. The war is making Ukraine an increasingly significant player for all of Europe.
