Von der Leyen, Rutte say Russian ‘intimidation will not work’ to stop Ukraine aid
EU and NATO leaders Ursula von der Leyen and Mark Rutte jointly declared that Russian 'intimidation will not work' to deter their support for Ukraine, following a thwarted attack on a German airport used for aid shipments, which Germany attributed to Russia. They condemned Russia's 'reckless' actions, including drone intrusions and alleged sabotage.
Why it matters
This strong, unified statement from EU and NATO leadership underscores Western resolve against Russian aggression and signals continued military and political support for Ukraine, potentially escalating geopolitical tensions and shaping the future of European security.
EU and NATO chiefs pledge continued support for Ukraine after a thwarted attack on a German airport sending aid to Kyiv was attributed to Russia.
Copy Link Copied Share via email Share on X Share on WhatsApp Share on LinkedIn Free article usually reserved for subscribers European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen speaks as NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte listens during a press statement at EU headquarters on September 2, 2026, in Brussels. | Omar Havana/Getty Images September 2, 2026 3:44 pm CET By Victor Jack BRUSSELS — The EU and NATO will not back down from supporting Ukraine despite attacks against European countries blamed on Russia, the leaders of the two institutions said Wednesday.
The rare joint statement came after Germany said Russia was behind a foiled attack on an airport used as a key logistics hub for military aid to Ukraine.
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