EU Rejects Russian Claims of Ukrainian Attack as Tensions Escalate

EU Denounces Russian Allegations

Brussels—The European Union’s foreign-policy chief, Josep Borrell, on Thursday dismissed Moscow’s claim that Ukraine launched drone strikes against Russian government websites as “fabricated pretexts meant to escalate hostilities.”

Borrell’s Statement

Russia’s accusations are baseless and dangerous. We will not accept false narratives designed to justify more violence.

Speaking after an emergency session of EU ambassadors, Borrell said Brussels had "no credible information" indicating Ukrainian involvement in recent cyber outages that briefly knocked out the Kremlin’s main portal.

Pattern of Disinformation

Western analysts say the episode fits a familiar script: Russia blames Ukraine for high-profile incidents before launching retaliatory strikes.

• April 2023: Moscow accused Kyiv of assassinating a Russian journalist; no evidence was provided.
• June 2023: Russia claimed Ukraine sabotaged a gas pipeline in the Baltic; investigators later found no proof.

Call for More Sanctions

EU diplomats told me they are already drafting a fresh package targeting Russian cyber actors. One official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the bloc wants the measures approved before the bloc’s next council meeting in Brussels.

What Happens Next

With Ukraine pressing allies for faster deliveries of air-defense systems, the EU is expected to unveil a €500 million assistance plan within days. Until then, expect more accusations—and more denials—as both sides trade blows across the digital battlefield.