Key facts
- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen declared Russian drone incidents in Europe the 'new normal.'
- Germany attributed an attempted Aug. 4 attack in Leipzig to Russia, involving explosive-laden drones.
- NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte described recent Russian actions as 'reckless,' including drone intrusions and alleged sabotage.
- Von der Leyen and Rutte affirmed that intimidation tactics will not deter the EU and NATO from supporting Ukraine.
- The EU plans to send 'rapid response teams' to assist countries facing similar incidents.
- EU foreign ministers will discuss further sanctions against Moscow.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has stated that incidents like the recent Russian drone sabotage in Germany are the "new normal," signaling a significant escalation of Russian activity on European Union soil and a "new era of European security." Speaking alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Brussels, von der Leyen emphasized that Europe must respond faster and better to Russia's "recklessness," treating everyday infrastructure as potential frontline targets.