Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has accused the European Union of using wartime-style propaganda to justify what he sees as excessive focus on militarization. His comments follow the unveiling of the EU’s proposed long-term budget, which includes major increases in defense spending and aid to Ukraine.
Speaking at a press conference in Moscow after talks with Mozambique’s foreign minister, Lavrov said, “Europe has gone into a frenzy… They are inciting their peoples in every way possible, instilling in them the spirit of Goebbels’ propaganda that Russia is… an existential threat.”
He argued that such messaging is being used to distract citizens from rising economic and social challenges across the bloc.
“They have to forget about social problems, about failures in the economy, and about the process of deindustrialization,” Lavrov added, pointing to current conditions in countries like Germany.
The criticism comes as the European Commission proposes a record €2 trillion budget for 2028–2034. The plan includes a fivefold boost in defense spending, reaching €131 billion, and doubling the financial aid facility for Ukraine to €100 billion.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has also spoken out against the draft, warning that it prioritizes foreign interests over domestic needs.
“This budget would destroy the European Union. I don’t think this budget will even survive next year,” Orbán said, predicting major revisions before any approval.
Lavrov’s remarks highlight ongoing tensions between Russia and the EU, as both sides double down on competing visions for regional security and economic stability.
