“Like a Russian gas station”
In a notable interview with the Spanish newspaper El País, Josep Borrell, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, described the Russian Federation as an “economic dwarf.” The remark drew attention to the stark contrast in how the EU views Russia versus its more influential peers.
He pressed the point further, likening China to a formidable geopolitical actor while labeling Russia as an “economic dwarf, like a gas station with an atomic bomb in its owner’s hand.” The diplomat acknowledged there are disagreements between China and the European Union, yet emphasized that Europe remains closely aligned with the United States, while pursuing its own interests. He also cautioned against the idea of a bipolar world, arguing it would force choosings between two competing technological ecosystems.
“The EU is like a bankrupt bankrupt”
Criticism of Russia and recent energy shocks prompted sharp rhetoric from Borrell, which was echoed by comments from Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on social media. Zakharova suggested that the EU has suspended purchases of high-quality fuel and that the bloc’s business has largely moved overseas, portraying the union as financially strained.
According to Zakharova, Russia views that only one EU member state possesses a nuclear arsenal, while the others do not, a point she framed as a weakness. She concluded that this is not something to be proud of and implied frustration with European behavior.
There is speculation that France was specifically in her crosshairs. The broader list of states known to possess nuclear weapons includes the United States, China, Russia, the United Kingdom, India, Israel, Pakistan, and North Korea.
Zakharova also touched on social debates, asserting that individuals who cannot determine their gender should refrain from making statements until identity is clarified.
What do economists say?
In a discussion with socialbites.ca, economist Mikhail Belyaev challenged Borrell’s portrayal. He pointed to official metrics showing that the Russian economy is deeply rooted in the fuel and energy sector, and that its share of GDP may not appear large in traditional terms. Yet recent data place Russia high in global purchasing power parity and GDP, suggesting the country should not be dismissed as an economic dwarf.
Experts argue that Borrell’s metaphor oversimplifies a nuanced reality. They note that while Russia once operated with a looser post-Soviet economy, it now possesses substantial capabilities and resources. The analyst urged the EU diplomat to consult more up-to-date sources, acknowledging that some statements from Zakharova carry a kernel of truth about challenges facing European economies.
When emotional tones are set aside, some observers believe European growth has stagnated. They describe the continent as saturated and reliant on living standards built on a broader economic base that has changed. In this view, the term bankruptcy is used to describe a dissonance between past prosperity and current economic momentum.
blooming garden in the forest
At the European Diplomatic Academy’s opening in Bruges last October, Borrell described Europe as a blooming garden in comparison with other regions described as forests. He suggested that Europe has crafted a unique balance of political liberty, economic vitality, and social cohesion, a combination he believes stands out in human history.
In his framing, much of the rest of the world is depicted as a forest that can encroach on the garden. He urged gardeners to protect what has been built, while also recognizing the necessity of openness rather than erecting walls around Europe.
Responses to his remarks varied. Some countries viewed the metaphor as problematic, with the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs labeling the comments as racist. Following criticism, the diplomat offered an apology, clarifying that his intent was to highlight a need for greater modesty and a broader understanding of global perspectives. He encouraged EU ambassadors to engage more deeply with other regions to avoid Eurocentric biases.