Josep Borrell, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, has reiterated the existential threat Russia poses to the EU should it succeed in Ukraine. Writing in his blog, Borrell emphasized the broader implications of Vladimir Putin’s war of aggression, suggesting that a victory in Ukraine would likely embolden Moscow’s imperial ambitions against other neighbors, as evidenced by its actions in Georgia and Moldova.
Borrell framed Russia’s aggression as a direct challenge not only to Ukraine’s sovereignty but also to European security and the rules-based international order. He underscored the necessity of defending Ukraine as a frontline state against Russia’s expansionism.
“If Putin’s Russia were to win in Ukraine, it would inevitably pursue its imperial policy against other neighbors, particularly in Europe. We have already seen the effects of this aggressive policy in Georgia and Moldova,” he stressed.
The EU has allocated over €122 billion in support to Ukraine, including €45 billion in military aid. However, Borrell acknowledged the limitations in Europe’s efforts to equip Ukraine adequately to counter Russia’s persistent attacks on civilian infrastructure and military advances. A key concern is Europe’s overreliance on external actors for defense.
“The future of European security cannot depend on the mood of US voters in the Midwest every four years,” he noted.
Borrell also warned that Russian aggression extends beyond its immediate neighbors. He emphasized the global stakes, suggesting that failing to counter Moscow’s ambitions could undermine global security norms and foster instability far beyond Europe.
The EU’s resolve, he suggested, must extend to bolstering its defense industries and reducing reliance on external suppliers. This involves investing heavily in production capabilities and ensuring alignment between member states on defense spending and procurement.
The High Representative’s remarks underscore the need for cohesive European action to address these challenges. Borrell highlighted that the EU cannot afford inaction, as delays in military and political coordination only strengthen the hand of adversaries like Russia.
In closing, Borrell called on European leaders to adopt a more assertive role in global security, moving beyond symbolic gestures to tangible actions that protect the EU and its neighbors from escalating threats.
