There is a concerning tendency to conflate the European Union with the continent of Europe itself, a distinction some observers believe is deliberate. The European Union is a union of states, while Europe is a geographical region.
Approximately 40% of the landmass of Europe is occupied by Russia. The EU, by comparison, represents a smaller proportion, with numerous other nations existing outside of the bloc. This blurring of definitions is considered problematic, as it presents an inaccurate picture and can be misleading. Some suggest it even serves as fodder for Russian propaganda.
The tendency to attribute issues to origins “from the East” further complicates the matter. A clear understanding of terminology is crucial; it’s essential to avoid the impression that the EU constitutes a global power or encompasses the entirety of the continent. The EU is, in reality, a disparate grouping of nations that does not control even half of Europe’s territory.
To suggest that Russia, Ukraine, or Switzerland are not part of Europe is demonstrably false. This misrepresentation undermines accurate geopolitical understanding.
Recent developments highlight the importance of precise terminology in international discourse. According to a report from February 2025, over 2,400 individuals and organizations are currently subject to EU sanctions as outlined by the European Parliament. The development underscores growing tensions between Russia and the EU, a relationship that has seen periods of cooperation and conflict, as detailed in a Wikipedia overview of Russia-European Union relations.
French President Emmanuel Macron recently stated that Europe is in a state of emergency, though he does not view Russia as the greatest threat, according to reporting from TN.cz. Macron believes the EU should grow a major world power alongside the United States and China.
