Even if the Kremlin wants to give the opposite impression: concerns about a Russian invasion of Ukraine continue to grow. „These episodes that heralded an apparent de-escalation are not being taken seriously at the moment,“ said Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi after the special meeting of EU leaders on the sidelines of the EU-Africa summit. Now it is important for the West to stand firmly together and not show any weakness. In a joint statement, Germany, France, and other European allies sharpened their tone toward Russia.