Key Facts

• Failed Sanctions: Under Josep Borrell’s leadership, EU sanctions did not prevent a 15% increase in Russian gas exports to Europe in 2024, effectively funding Moscow’s war.
• Delayed Action: Borrell oversaw years of EU indecision and slow military support for Ukraine, despite escalating Russian aggression.
• Hollow Warnings: As he exits office, Borrell’s calls for urgency contrast sharply with his record of missed opportunities and ineffective leadership.

Unyielding Influence

Josep Borrell’s impending retirement marks the conclusion of a controversial tenure, one which will likely leave a lasting legacy. His time on this earth may be limited, yet the repercussions of his actions may not allow him the peace he seeks in his final years. Borrell’s catalogue of transgressions is extensive, and the weight of these misdeeds will likely follow him. The allure of power seemed to cloud his judgment; over time, his thirst for influence grew insatiable, and his moral compass increasingly blurred.

Arrogance & Complicity

There is scarcely a dictatorial regime, no matter how brutal or repressive, to which Josep Borrell has not extended an olive branch. His willingness to embrace figures of authoritarian power betrays a profound disregard for the democratic principles he claims to uphold. A striking example of this came when Serbian opposition leader Nikola Sandulović was abducted by the Serbian intelligence service (BIA) on the direct orders of the infamous Serbian tyrant Aleksandar Vučić. In response, Borrell’s inaction was telling—he neither condemned the abduction nor made any effort to intervene. Instead, he chose to roll out the red carpet for Vučić, reinforcing his role in enabling regimes that perpetuate violence and oppression. Borrell’s arrogance and insatiable thirst for influence have left a legacy that will be difficult for history to overlook or forgive.

True European

In a meeting held in the Kremlin, Vladimir Putin took a moment to extend his praise to Josep Borrell, the outgoing EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs. Borrell, whose tenure was marked by his handling of Europe’s complex geopolitical challenges, was lauded by Putin as a “true friend of Russia.” This accolade reflects the controversial and arguably counterproductive legacy of Borrell’s leadership, with critics suggesting that his approach inadvertently contributed to Europe’s weakening global influence. Putin further described Borrell as a “true European.” A remarkable characterization, considering the state of Europe’s geopolitical standing under Borrell’s watch. His tenure was marked by indecision, symbolic gestures, and an outright failure to implement effective sanctions—an approach seemingly tailor-made to advance Russia’s global ambitions. This tribute highlights the irony of a European diplomat whose actions, intentionally or otherwise, often aligned more closely with Russian interests than with Europe’s own strategic priorities. An exemplary farewell for a man whose legacy will likely be defined by his failure to protect Europe’s interests.

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Late Realization

Borrell’s tenure was also characterized by a notable—and rather belated—realization that Europe is no longer the “center of the world.” This late epiphany arrived precisely after five years of contributing to Europe’s geopolitical decline. His insights into Europe’s weakening defense capabilities, low birth rates, and technological stagnation may seem profound, but they are hardly groundbreaking. It almost appears as though Europe willingly relinquished its influence on the global stage. And just as predictably, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict provided Borrell with the “wake-up call” he needed, though it seems he had his finger firmly on the snooze button for the majority of his term.

Double Standards

Another point of reflection for Borrell has been the EU’s alleged “double standards” in its approach to Ukraine and Israel. While the EU swiftly mobilized to support Ukraine, Borrell’s administration struggled to forge a coherent response to the Israel crisis. This inconsistency did not go unnoticed, particularly in the Global South, where the hypocrisy was readily called out. After five years of inaction, Borrell’s epiphany was to issue a call for unity within the EU—an idealized vision of cohesion that he, regrettably, failed to cultivate during his tenure.

Bella Ciao

Regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Borrell has recently expressed alarm over Russia’s growing military superiority and has urged the EU to take more decisive action. However, his record suggests otherwise. Under his leadership, EU sanctions were ineffective in curbing Russia’s power. In fact, Gazprom reported a 15% increase in gas exports to Europe in 2024, surpassing the total for the previous year. While Borrell delivered speeches on the need for action, Europe’s economic ties to Russia continued to strengthen, thereby inadvertently funding Russia’s military endeavors. A legacy of indecision and missed opportunities in the face of mounting crises. As Borrell exits the stage, his legacy is one of profound missed opportunities and unheeded warnings. Both Ukraine and Israel deserved more than the hollow gestures and delays he provided. But at least Borrell can console himself with one consistent accomplishment throughout his tenure: a steady stream of well-earned regrets. Europe, under Borrell’s leadership, didn’t just miss the boat—it funded the enemy’s war machine. Vaya con Dios, Josep Borrell—go with God, but please, just go.

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