Von der Leyen Says EU 'Must Respond' to Russia's 'Gray Zone' Campaign

7 HOURS AGO·UPDATED 7 HOURS AGO

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Above: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen speaks at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, on Oct. 8, 2025. Image copyright: Frederick Florin/AFP/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-establishment narrative

These repeated drone incidents have an air of plausible deniability about them, but make no mistake — this is a coherent and escalating campaign by Russia to destabilize the EU, test its resolve and weaken support for Ukraine. Europe must respond decisively to this campaign of hybrid warfare — otherwise, Russia will only take things further.

EuroNews

Establishment-critical narrative

Time and again, EU officials claim without evidence that the bogeyman of Russia is to blame for these drone sightings. Never is it mentioned that Ukraine, now a drone powerhouse, could just as likely be responsible, especially as it has a much greater incentive for Europe to become further entangled in its military campaign. This is likely a propaganda effort aimed at justifying further militarism.

Transnational Foundation & Jan Oberg