A New Low in East-West Tensions?

A New Low in East-West Tensions?

EU Diplomat Attacked in Russia’s Vladivostok, Investigation Underway

A Romanian EU representative was assaulted by two men in Vladivostok, eastern Russia, on May 26, according to a report by the German news magazine, Der Spiegel. The diplomat was on an official trip in the city and had stepped out of her hotel for a morning walk at around 7 am, as she was unable to sleep, sources from diplomatic circles revealed.

As she walked, a car pulled up beside her and two men got out, allegedly threatening and beating her. It is unclear whether the attackers were affiliated with the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB), the country’s domestic intelligence agency.

The European Commission has condemned the attack and launched an investigation, stating that the safety of its personnel is a top priority. “We have summoned the Russian representative in Belgium for clarification” a spokesperson said, adding that the commission would continue to review the security of its diplomatic personnel.

The current condition of the diplomat is unclear and the Romanian government has yet to respond to a request for an update on her status. The incident highlights the risks faced by EU representatives working in sensitive regions and the need for robust security measures to protect them.