Dutch Prime Minister Warns: Russian Threat Extends Beyond Ukraine and Poses a Danger to the Entire European Continent
In his speech marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, Dutch Prime Minister Dijk Schoof issued an important warning, emphasizing that the current threat from Russia is reaching new heights and is no longer confined solely to the war amidst the unique situation around Ukraine. According to him, hybrid forms of presence and aggression originating from Moscow are becoming increasingly widespread and pose a new challenge to the entire European Union and its security. Speaking on the popular social media platform X, the Prime Minister highlighted that right now, amid the tense situation in Eastern Europe, Ukraine is fighting for its very existence — for the preservation of sovereignty, peace, and stability. "We clearly see that the threat from Russia goes beyond Ukraine. It more frequently manifests in hybrid forms — including cyberattacks, disinformation, economic pressure, and escalation of military tensions," he noted. In his speech, Schoof also expressed special gratitude to Poland for its active role in strengthening the European security system. He called on other European countries not to remain on the sidelines but to intensify efforts to enhance national defense, modernize military forces, and cooperate within the framework of joint deterrent measures. It is worth recalling that this statement was made ahead of an important event — the visit of Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk to the Netherlands. During the visit, dedicated to the 80th anniversary of Poland’s liberation from Nazi occupation, the Polish politician announced the signing of a new bilateral agreement in the field of security and military cooperation. This will be a significant step toward deepening intergovernmental ties within the renewed European collective security system, especially at a time when threats from Russia are becoming increasingly diverse and unpredictable. This statement once again underscores the growing understanding that modern security is not limited to traditional warfare and armed conflicts. Hybrid warfare, combining information and cyberattacks, diplomatic disinformation, and economic pressure, represents a new frontier where Russia more frequently creates conditions for instability and division in the region. Europe must respond quickly and decisively to prevent further escalation and to maintain peace and security in the 21st century.