Von der Leyen Condemns Russian Threats to 3 Baltic States as EU Vows Stronger Eastern Defences
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · May 20
Von der Leyen Condemns Russian Threats to 3 Baltic States as EU Vows Stronger Eastern Defences
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · May 20
Ursula von der Leyen said Russia’s public threats against the Baltic states were “completely unacceptable,” warning that a threat to one EU member is a threat to the entire union.
In her X statement, she said Russia and Belarus bear direct responsibility for drones endangering lives and security on the EU’s eastern flank, tying the warning to recent cross-border security incidents.
The European Commission president said Europe would respond with “unity and strength” and keep reinforcing the eastern flank through stronger collective defence and preparedness.
Her statement followed a May 20 appeal from 15 Baltic lawmakers for an EU condemnation of Russia’s May 19 strike threats and for more help securing Baltic airspace.
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Overview
On May 20, 2026, concerns over Russian aggression grew as 15 European Parliament members warned about escalating threats and drone incursions into EU airspace. The European Commission responded immediately, with spokesperson Anitta Hipper strongly condemning the incidents and making it clear that Russia’s ongoing war of aggression is directly responsible for drones crashing into EU territory. Hipper emphasized that without Russia’s actions, these security breaches would not occur. This firm stance highlights the EU’s commitment to holding Russia accountable and underscores the serious impact of these provocations on regional stability.