EU's von der Leyen: ‘We should’ve listened to Poland's warnings about Russia’

The President of the European Commission acknowledged that the West should have listened to a group of Central European countries, including Poland, that warned against Russia's imperialism.  

Ursula von der Leyen

PAP/EPA/RONALD WITTEK

During a press conference held to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Union's largest expansion on May 1st, Ursula von der Leyen highlighted that the EU should have heeded the warnings Central and Eastern European countries issued about potential threats posed by Russia. Given their historical experiences with the government, these countries' concerns should have been taken more seriously.

"They understood much earlier than other nations in the European Union how dangerous Russia could be. They pushed to build a strong unity as it was the way to circumvent developing conflicts in the region”, said the head of the European Commission.

The 2004 enlargement was a defining moment for our Union.

One that transformed the societies & economies of new member states.

And made our Union stronger together.

Today, we proudly hoist the flags of these countries.

We unfurl our Union's flag, celebrating #20YearsTogether. pic.twitter.com/MW8Vbt2LRS

— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) May 1, 2024

Ursula von der Leyen also appreciated the support provided by Poland, Central European countries, and the Baltic states to Ukraine attacked by Russia.

(aj)

SOURCE: IAR