Resolution: MEPs say Moldova-Ukraine cooperation is key against Russian drone threats
The European Parliament has condemned Russia's drone incursions. In a resolution adopted on June 18, the European Union (EU) stated that it will not be intimidated by Russia's actions. The EU is united in its determination to defend the security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of all its member states and will continue to support Ukraine. Additionally, the resolution emphasizes that cooperation with Moldova, alongside Ukraine, is essential in addressing the threat posed by Russian drones.
Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) express their full solidarity with Romania, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, and Lithuania, whose territories, airspace, or critical infrastructure have been targeted by Russian hybrid threats.
The resolution was adopted with 412 votes in favor, 63 against, and 53 abstentions.
Support for Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova
MEPs emphasize the urgent need to accelerate the production and delivery of essential military equipment to Ukraine, specifically air defense systems, ammunition, drones, and missiles. They argue that cooperation with the Republic of Moldova, alongside Ukraine, is crucial for operational efficiency, situational awareness, and information sharing in addressing the Russian drone threat. Therefore, member states should increase funding for the Republic of Moldova through the European Peace Facility.
Drone incursions and airspace violations over EU territory are not isolated incidents; they are part of a broader Russian strategy to intimidate the EU and its allies. MEPs state that these hostile actions are further compounded by aggressive disinformation campaigns aimed at instilling fear in local populations, damaging local economies, and creating a pretext for potential retaliation.
Deliberate threat to EU security
According to MEPs, Russia bears full and unequivocal responsibility for these reckless and life-threatening escalations. They assert that Russia's actions represent a deliberate and systematic threat to the security, resilience, and sovereignty of the EU and its member states. MEPs also highlight Belarus' complicity and condemn its hybrid attacks against the EU.
The Parliament asserts that the EU will not be intimidated by Russia's campaign and is united in its commitment to defend the security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of all EU member states while continuing to support Ukraine.
Strengthening the EU and NATO’s eastern flank
The resolution calls for the urgent establishment of a genuine European Defense Union. It emphasizes that deeper integration, coordination, and pooling of resources are essential for an effective EU response to the increasing threats from Russia.
MEPs stress that the eastern flank of the EU and NATO must be strengthened in its entirety, from the Arctic to the Black Sea, encompassing land, sea, and air capabilities to counter drones and weather balloons. They argue that Russia's deliberate incursions are intended not only to provoke and destabilize member states but also to test and exploit weaknesses in NATO’s detection and response capabilities.
