On August 28, 2025, Russia launched a massive air assault on Kyiv, deliberately targeting the Delegation of the European Commission in Ukraine. The attack killed several civilians and destroyed critical infrastructure. EU Ambassador to Ukraine Katarína Mathernová denounced the strike, declaring that the war has now directly touched the European Union. In a statement on her Facebook page, she said she was convinced this was a deliberate decision by Vladimir Putin, describing the attacks as terrorism rather than a military operation.
War reaches beyond Ukraine
Mathernová’s remarks underscored the growing perception in European political circles that the Kremlin is deliberately expanding its aggression beyond Ukraine. By striking the EU mission in Kyiv, Russia signaled a disregard not only for international law but also for the broader European community. Similar assaults on foreign facilities, such as the recent attack on the American-owned Flex factory in western Ukraine, have reinforced the view that Moscow is determined to escalate the conflict despite international mediation efforts.
US peace efforts undermined
The attack came as Washington attempted to revive peace negotiations. President Donald Trump recently organized a visit by Putin to Alaska, with the White House preparing a potential meeting between the Russian leader and President Volodymyr Zelensky to explore a ceasefire. European officials argue that Russia’s continued air strikes demonstrate a lack of interest in peace and instead highlight Moscow’s intention to pursue its objectives through military escalation, while simultaneously undermining US diplomatic authority.
Pressure for a tougher European response
In Brussels, Mathernová’s statement has intensified calls for a stronger EU stance. Officials increasingly see Russia’s actions as an attack on the Union itself, which could accelerate decisions on tougher sanctions, enhanced defensive support for Ukraine, and reinforcement of Europe’s own security capabilities. The recognition that diplomatic concessions have failed to restrain the Kremlin is driving momentum toward a coordinated Western policy shift. A harder line from both the EU and the United States could shape the conditions for meaningful peace talks, with increased pressure viewed as the only way to force Putin to reconsider his strategy.
