Asger Risom
The German defense minister calls Moscow’s tactics increasingly aggressive and aimed at civilians.
As Russia’s war in Ukraine grinds on, Europe’s defense leaders are recalibrating both strategy and rhetoric.
With battle lines largely frozen and attacks growing more complex, new assessments are emerging about Moscow’s intentions—and what they mean for Europe’s security.
Berlin Reaffirms Support Amid Drone Barrage
Speaking from Kyiv, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius condemned what he described as some of the most violent airstrikes of the war.
Russia’s recent assault, involving 479 Shahed drones and multiple cruise and hypersonic missiles, marks the largest drone attack since the invasion began, according to Ukrainian authorities.
The scale and targeting of the attack, which struck numerous civilian zones, sends a clear message, said Pistorius: “Moscow currently has no interest in a peaceful resolution.”
He added that the air campaign reveals a shift toward total warfare, increasingly ignoring the distinction between military and civilian targets.
His visit to Ukraine also served as a show of solidarity from Germany’s new government, which has pledged continued military aid.
Pistorius has been a vocal advocate for strengthening Ukraine’s air defense, and—alongside UK Defense Secretary John Healey—has taken a lead role in coordinating European support as American backing becomes more uncertain under President Trump.
Focus on Electronic Warfare and Civilian Protection
Beyond missiles and drones, Pistorius emphasized the emerging front in electronic warfare. Germany is working with allies to help Ukraine secure battlefield communications, gather intelligence, and resist signal jamming.
Protecting civilians from drone strikes remains a priority, particularly as urban areas grow more vulnerable to low-altitude incursions.
Germany is currently the second-largest provider of military assistance to Ukraine after the United States, and Pistorius’s remarks underscore Berlin’s belief that deterrence remains the only viable strategy, as reported by Digi24.