Russia on the back foot with dynamics of war shifting in Ukraine’s favour, EU says – as it happened
EU officials have warned that Russia is losing ground militarily, economically and diplomatically, as Ukraine gains strategic advantages. Kaja Kallas called for sustained European pressure and highlighted new defense deals, while European leaders in Hungary, Bulgaria and Latvia discuss reforms and…
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced that Russia is on the back foot as the dynamics of the war in Ukraine shift in favour of Kyiv. The statement came after Ukraine secured a major defence agreement with Sweden, which will allow the country to purchase up to 20 Gripen fighter jets. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reiterated that diplomacy alone cannot stop Russia, urging the United States to supply more air‑defence missiles.
EU’s stance on Russia and Ukraine
During an informal meeting of EU ministers, Kallas stressed that Europe must keep pressure on Moscow. She said the war’s momentum is turning against Russia, noting that the country is suffering setbacks across military, economic and diplomatic fronts. Kallas called for an unconditional ceasefire as a prerequisite for any peace talks and demanded that Russia halt sabotage, cyber‑attacks, election interference and airspace violations. She also warned that many European states still do business with Moscow, and that the EU should use its leverage to limit trade and investment with the Kremlin.
The EU is already preparing a new round of sanctions on Russia. Kallas said that the bloc would not act as a neutral mediator between Russia and Ukraine, because it is firmly on Ukraine’s side and is defending its core security interests. She urged European leaders to be ready to play a complementary role in any future negotiations.
New defence deals and diplomatic outreach
Ukraine’s agreement with Sweden marks a significant boost to Kyiv’s air‑defence capabilities. The deal includes plans to buy Gripen fighters, which will help Ukraine counter Russia’s mix of missiles, drones and aerial bombs. Zelenskyy highlighted the need for more anti‑ballistic missiles from the United States, citing complications in the supply chain due to the war in Iran.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said the partnership would allow Sweden to learn from Ukraine’s experience in dealing with drone warfare. He acknowledged that Russia would likely react negatively, but argued that neighbouring countries are prepared for hybrid threats and that the deal would not change the overall security environment.
European leaders focus on reforms and security
Hungary’s new prime minister Péter Magyar announced that his government is close to a political deal with the European Commission on post‑Orbán reforms. The agreement would unlock billions of euros in EU funds ahead of his meeting with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Bulgaria’s newly elected prime minister Rumen Radev visited Brussels to meet with NATO’s Mark Rutte and the EU Commission. He emphasized Bulgaria’s role in European security, its commitment to anti‑corruption reforms and its focus on energy diversification. Radev also stressed the importance of meeting EU deadlines and securing the remaining EU funds for Bulgaria.
In Latvia, the parliament approved a new centre‑right coalition government led by Andris Kulbergs after the previous administration collapsed over disputes about handling Ukrainian drones that entered Latvian airspace. Kulbergs highlighted security, the economy and energy as top priorities for the incoming administration. He warned that the October parliamentary election would be the ultimate test of the new government’s performance.
Other European developments
EU regulators fined Chinese e‑commerce platform Temu €200 million for selling illegal and dangerous products, the second and largest fine under the Digital Services Act. The commission cited a high percentage of unsafe baby toys, chargers and jewellery found on the site.
Meanwhile, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez faces a series of corruption cases involving his family and former officials. The cases are expected to unfold over the coming weeks, adding pressure to Sánchez ahead of next year’s general election.
Across the region, NATO and EU officials continue to discuss defence spending, energy security and the role of member states in countering Russian aggression.
What happens next?
EU officials are preparing to launch additional sanctions on Russia and to strengthen diplomatic pressure. Ukraine continues to seek increased military support from the United States and European partners. European leaders are working to secure funding, implement reforms and maintain security in the face of ongoing hybrid threats. The upcoming NATO summit in July and the October parliamentary elections in Latvia and Bulgaria will further shape the region’s political landscape.
Why it matters
The article highlights the EU’s strategic response to Russia’s war in Ukraine, underscoring the shifting balance of power and the importance of continued diplomatic and military support for Ukraine.
Key points
- EU says Russia is losing ground militarily, economically and diplomatically
- Ukraine signs defence deal with Sweden for up to 20 Gripen jets
- Hungary moves toward EU‑fund‑unlocking reforms
- Bulgaria and Latvia focus on security and reform amid political changes
- EU fines Temu €200m for illegal products under Digital Services Act
Frequently asked questions
What is the main reason the EU says Russia is on the back foot?
The EU cites Russia’s military setbacks, economic sanctions, and diplomatic isolation as reasons for the shift in war dynamics.
How many Gripen jets will Ukraine potentially acquire from Sweden?
The agreement allows Ukraine to purchase up to 20 Gripen fighter jets.
What does Kaja Kallas say about EU’s role in potential negotiations with Russia?
Kallas states that the EU will not act as a neutral mediator but will support Ukraine and defend its core security interests.
