European Union (EU) High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell spoke last night about the new package of EU sanctions against Russia and then said that Brussels is closely monitoring Russian influence in Moldova, Georgia, and the Balkans.
Borrell mentioned, among other things, that Russia is conducting strong propaganda through its media, which are “champions of manipulation”.
“We must be aware of various manipulations, because Putin not only wants to take over the territory but also the minds of the people. That is why we will ban Russian state media in the EU since they are champions in manipulation. We support independent media in Ukraine and Russia,” he said.
Then, he stressed there was a fear that Russia would not stop in Ukraine and that Russian influence could start in the neighborhood.
“Moldova, Georgia, and it can also have an impact on the Western Balkans. That is why we need to pay special attention to what is happening there. We are following what is happening in the Western Balkan countries aspiring to EU membership,” he said.
Borrell pointed out that these are the key moments for the EU.
We must show what the EU is and what it wants to be. The challenges we face will grow and we must be ready, now, but also for the next generations. The EU is a peace project and we want to fight for peace and for the people. But we must be ready to defend peace. What is happening in Ukraine will be a moment to awaken Europeans who will fight for the future,” he concluded.
E.Dz.
Source: Klix.ba
