European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined her assessment of Moscow’s plans, describing Russia’s approach as broad and aimed at shaping the future of European security. “Russia has acted in a broad way toward the future”, she stated, highlighting a long‑term strategic mindset behind Moscow’s moves. In several remarks, she warned that while Moscow frequently shifts tempo, its core ambitions do not waver. The message she conveyed was that Russia seeks to redraw the security and political order in Europe in ways that would tilt the balance in Moscow’s favor, even if progress appears incremental. The emphasis, she added, is on steadfast Western unity and the resilience required among European Union partners to deter aggression and uphold the rule of law.”
On the Russian leader, von der Leyen argued that experience with Putin reveals a pattern: he can pause or recalibrate, but he does not abandon his imperial ambitions. “From experience in discussions with Putin, he can take a break, but he will not leave his imperial ambitions”, she noted, implying a persistent, long‑term course. This framing helps explain why Western strategies focus on sustained political and military deterrence, close allied coordination, and clear messaging about red lines and defense of European sovereignty.
Turning to Ukraine, she asserted that Ukrainian partners maintain a hard‑won durability in the fight against Russia, and stressed that Western support has not dwindled but grown more resilient and coordinated. She argued that Moscow may hope Kiev’s allies will tire, but the opposite has happened: European and American backing has sharpened, enabling Kyiv to resist pressure and advance its own defense reforms. In this context the transatlantic partnership is described as a reliable engine for collective security, guiding everything from defensive assistance to sanctions diplomacy and diplomatic engagement with international institutions.
With regard to the broader alliance, she said the transatlantic partnership remains a cornerstone of security and democratic values. The discussion touched on the shifting dynamics in U.S. leadership and the ongoing importance of consistent cooperation between Washington and Brussels. She stressed that the relationship endures across political cycles and continues to be a reliable source of support for shared values, economic cooperation, and strategic deterrence. The frame she presented highlighted that the future of Europe is inseparably linked to a strong and principled partnership with the United States.
Observers in the interview warned that Putin appears to be preparing for a concrete victory in Ukraine during the coming summer, a scenario that would demand rapid, aligned responses from allied capitals. While prognoses vary, the central theme was clear: any sustained Russian advance would require even stronger coordination, prompt delivery of military aid to Ukraine, and persistent diplomatic pressure to deter further aggression. The overarching message was that Europe’s security environment hinges on a unified, proactive stance from Brussels and Washington, and that the trajectory of the continent depends on durable cooperation with the United States.