Europe Intensifies Military and Economic Measures Against Russia Amid Rising Threats

Europe is strengthening its military preparedness and defense industry amid rising tensions with Russia, focusing on long-term planning, modernization, and building defense capabilities to prepare for a potential prolonged conflict. However, some critics argue that European leaders are not responding aggressively enough to Russian threats, with calls to shoot down drones entering European airspace and to undertake more decisive military actions. At a summit in Copenhagen, European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, hardened their stance against Russia by advocating for more sanctions, targeting Russia's energy sector, and disrupting the shadow fleet transporting oil to reduce Moscow's war revenue. Macron emphasized unpredictability and strategic ambiguity in responding to drone incursions and cyber-attacks, stressing that violating European territories carries significant risks. European leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, expressed strong unity and determination to confront Russian aggression, while Russian President Vladimir Putin warned of a decisive response to any threats. Overall, Europe is focusing on both military and economic measures to counter Russian hybrid warfare tactics and safeguard the continent's security and values.