European capitals condemned the Kremlin’s latest threats to launch massive strikes on Kyiv, calling them a “dangerous escalation” and “an attempt to intimidate not only Ukraine but the entire continent.”
The reaction was prompted by recent public rhetoric from high-ranking Russian officials, who openly declared their readiness to “strike Kyiv” in response to the actions of the Ukrainian army and the supply of Western weapons.
Reactions of Key Countries
Germany. The German Chancellor stated that the Kremlin’s threats demonstrate Russia’s weakness on the battlefield. “Anyone who threatens civilian objects and the capital of a sovereign state demonstrates not strength, but desperation,” he emphasized. Berlin promised to expedite the delivery of Patriot and IRIS-T air defense systems to Ukraine.
France. The French President called the Kremlin’s statements “unacceptable” and called on the EU to impose a new package of sanctions. “Europe will not allow itself to be blackmailed. We will support Ukraine for as long as it takes,” he said during a joint press conference with the British Prime Minister.
United Kingdom. The UK Foreign Secretary described the threats as “a war crime in the planning stage.” London announced a new military aid package, including long-range Storm Shadow missiles and additional air defense systems.
Poland. Warsaw responded most harshly. The Polish President stated: “If the Kremlin decides to launch a new massive strike against Kyiv, it will be a direct challenge to NATO’s entire eastern flank.” Poland called for urgent consideration of granting Ukraine permission to use Western weapons against military targets deep within Russian territory.
Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. The Baltic states issued a joint statement calling the Kremlin’s threats “terrorist rhetoric” and calling on the EU and NATO to provide “real deterrence,” including the deployment of additional alliance forces in the region.
European Union. The head of European diplomacy stated that the EU is considering new restrictive measures against the Russian military-industrial complex and banking sector. “Threats against the civilian population of Kyiv only strengthen our resolve,” he noted.
European leaders emphasize that further escalation by Russia will only lead to increased support for Ukraine and new sanctions against the Russian regime.