In a resolution adopted on Thursday, MEPs strongly condemn Russia's "reckless and escalating actions" in violating the airspace of EU and NATO member states: Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Romania, European Parliament Press office reports.
The press release issued by the press office reads:
They also condemn the deliberate drone incursions into the airspace of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, targeting critical infrastructure. According to MEPs, these actions constitute part of Russia's "systematic military and hybrid warfare and provocations against the EU" and its member states. Russia bears full and unequivocal responsibility for its actions in the airspace of Poland, Estonia, and Romania.
Encouraging all initiatives that will enable the EU and its member states to take "coordinated, joint, and proportionate action against any violation of their airspace, including the downing of air threats," MEPs welcome the concept of a European drone wall and the initiative to protect the EU's eastern flank. However, they emphasize the need to protect all EU member states facing direct threats along the southern flank. They consider that the scope of Russia's sabotage and hybrid activities against the EU constitutes state-sponsored terrorism, even if it does not exceed the threshold of an armed attack.
EU must show determination, say MEPs
The resolution states that the EU must demonstrate determination and make clear that any third country attempting to violate the sovereignty of a Member State will face immediate action. MEPs also call on the Council and Commission to increase the effectiveness and impact of sanctions against Russia, ultimately weakening the country's ability to continue its brutal war of aggression against Ukraine. Punitive measures should cover all states enabling Russia's actions, such as Belarus, Iran, and North Korea. MEPs also advocate sanctions against Chinese entities supplying dual-use and military goods, essential for the production of drones and missiles.
A strong European pillar within NATO
Calling for strengthened coordination, unity, and solidarity between Member States, EU institutions, and NATO structures, MEPs underline the urgent need to work towards a true European Defence Union, building on and going beyond existing frameworks such as the White Paper on European Defence and Preparedness for 2030. This progress should be coupled with adequate funding within the current and future Multiannual Financial Frameworks, MEPs say, highlighting the need for stronger civil-military coordination in airspace and for police forces and civilian authorities to be better equipped to detect and defend against drones. Parliament also calls on the EU and Member States to provide authorities with adequate countermeasures against drones in locations with critical infrastructure, such as airports or power plants.
Lessons from Ukraine
The resolution calls for significantly enhanced defense cooperation with Ukraine, particularly in drone technology and countermeasures, including enhanced industrial cooperation. It also calls on the co-legislators to swiftly finalize the legislation on the European Defense Industrial Program (EDIP). This program, along with the Security for Europe Instrument (SAFE), should be used to allocate funding to learn from Ukraine's experience and support Ukraine in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) warfare.
The resolution was adopted by 469 votes in favour, 97 against, and 38 abstentions.
