By John Q. Hosedrinker Ukraine’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergiy Kyslytsia has stated that Russia is already at war with Europe, citing recent drone incursions into several European countries as a deliberate attempt to test boundaries. These drone incidents, which have occurred in at least eight European countries, have caused airspace closures and flight delays. Kyslytsia warns that without a strong response from the U.S. and EU, Vladimir Putin will continue to escalate actions. Putin, however, denies any involvement in the drone activity, dismissing the concerns and mocking European responses to the sightings.
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**”Get serious” — Russia is already at war with Europe, Ukraine’s deputy foreign minister says** – This is the sobering reality that has been presented. It’s a statement that hangs heavy in the air, and it forces us to confront a truth that some have been hesitant to acknowledge. While the full-scale invasion of Ukraine has been a brutal and undeniable act, the underlying nature of Russia’s actions, and their impact on Europe, suggest a broader, more insidious conflict is already underway.
**The concept of war extends beyond traditional military action**. It’s no longer just about tanks rolling across borders or fighter jets dominating the skies, as we may see in the current Ukraine conflict. Russia is employing a multi-pronged approach, encompassing cyber warfare, disinformation campaigns, economic pressure, and even the manipulation of social and political landscapes, all designed to destabilize and weaken Europe. This is a form of hybrid warfare, and it’s a tactic that doesn’t require boots on the ground to inflict damage.
**One of the most worrying points is the vulnerability of European nations**. Some argue that the EU is not equipped to face a conventional war and are even struggling to wean themselves off Russian fossil fuels. The fact is, Europe has been slow to fully recognize the scale of the threat and to prepare accordingly. The reality is that the EU doesn’t have the military capacity to obliterate Russia, nor does it have the nuclear arsenal of Russia. This hesitance is understandable, as the cost of a full-scale conflict is unfathomable. But the danger of not being prepared is even greater.
**The narrative is also about the role of propaganda**. The Russian propaganda machine is exceptionally adept at weaving a web of misinformation, sowing discord, and undermining trust in democratic institutions. This is a tactic that is used to undermine the resolve of European citizens. This can be as damaging as any military strike, eroding societal cohesion and making it easier for Russia to achieve its goals. The war, therefore, is also being fought in the realm of ideas and perceptions.
**This is compounded by the willingness of some in Europe to compromise**. Some believe that a less confrontational approach, even if it means accepting certain Russian actions, is the only way to avoid a larger conflict. While the desire to avoid war is natural, appeasement often has the opposite effect. It can embolden aggressors and create a situation that makes conflict inevitable.
**This prompts a re-evaluation of the past**. There are those who harken back to a “glorious” past, a time of empires and conquest. It’s important to remember that this past was built on exploitation and bloodshed. Europe’s true strength lies not in war and dominance, but in its capacity to innovate, adapt, and engage with the world. This also includes the willingness to confront its darker chapters.
**The need for a strong defense is evident**. The alternative to not buying Russian fossil fuels is to build your own energy supply while you pay more for it until it is complete. It’s a small sacrifice compared to the Ukrainian men dying in a war. Europe must invest in its military capabilities and become less reliant on external energy sources. To effectively deter Russia, it needs to adopt a clear strategy.
**Europe is going to have to stand for its values**. Europe must stand firm in its commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. It must defend these values against the constant attacks of Russian aggression. If Europe is to reclaim leadership in humanist ideals, part of that leadership is owning history honestly rather than trivializing it.
**The response from NATO is not guaranteed**. While NATO will arm Ukraine, Russia may be seeking to provoke a stronger reaction. The intent may be a bit more calculated than that. Russia is in a bad situation in many domains (demographically, economically, militarily) and they are essentially trying to scrape whatever advantage they can get. Russia could be using any NATO response to create a rally around the flag effect and creating the political conditions for Putin to do mass mobilization.
**Ultimately, it’s about understanding that the conflict is not just in Ukraine**. It’s a much wider struggle for the future of Europe. It is one that demands courage, resolve, and a clear-eyed understanding of the threat at hand. Europe must act, and it must act now, or risk being consumed by a war it may not even realize it’s fighting.