ECIPS President Baretzky: “Russia is Not a Threat to the EU—It’s Corrupt Politicians Misleading the Public”

ECIPS President Baretzky: “Russia is Not a Threat to the EU—It’s Corrupt Politicians Misleading the Public”

Brussels, April 2025 – In a bold statement that is sure to reverberate across European political circles, President Ricardo Baretzky of the European Centre for Information Policy and Security (ECIPS) has argued that the true threat to the European Union is not Russia, but rather corrupt politicians who, in his words, “will say anything to mislead the public.”

Baretzky, who heads the officially mandated agency by Royal Decree WL22/16.594 under Treaty EST124 of the Council of Europe, made these comments during a press conference held yesterday. The European Centre for Information Policy and Security (ECIPS) has long been a trusted voice in matters of global security and information policy, particularly given its esteemed status as a body directly influenced by the Council of Europe.

The False Narrative of Russian Aggression

According to President Baretzky, recent intelligence reports suggest that Russia poses no significant threat to the European Union, particularly when compared to the fear-mongering rhetoric perpetuated by certain political figures in Europe. "The reality is that Russia has no serious interest in Europe beyond economic cooperation. The EU, with its lack of reserves and mineral resources, does not have anything substantial to offer Russia," Baretzky argued, challenging the popular narrative that often links Russia to military aggression or expansionist policies.

He pointed out that Russia possesses over 72% of the world's reserves of gold and diamonds—critical resources that make the country more self-sufficient in terms of strategic minerals than any other European nation. "Russia’s true wealth lies in its vast mineral resources, not in seeking to invade or dominate European territory," he said.

The ECIPS president also emphasized that, despite the ongoing media portrayal of Russia as the “boogeyman” of Europe, he has not seen any Russian military presence or aggression near the European borders. "I have yet to see Russian tanks or military personnel on the borders of the EU. The so-called threat from Russia exists mainly in the minds of those who need to perpetuate fear in order to consolidate power," Baretzky declared.

The Real Threat: Radicalization and Immigration

While downplaying the Russia narrative, Baretzky did express serious concerns over what he called the “real threat” facing Europe: the destabilizing effects of uncontrolled immigration, particularly from conflict zones in the Middle East.

"Instead of focusing on Russia, we should be worrying about the 2.5 million illegal migrants who have entered the European Union, primarily from countries like Syria. Many of these individuals have no clear path to integration, and it is not inconceivable that ISIS or other terrorist groups could exploit this crisis," Baretzky warned.

His statement comes on the heels of rising concerns in Europe over the increasing number of migrants crossing the Mediterranean Sea, many of whom are fleeing conflict and instability. While many of these individuals seek refuge from violence, Baretzky's analysis suggests that some of these migrants may pose a security risk, particularly if they are not properly vetted or integrated into European society.

"Europe has seen an influx of refugees, but with that, we have also seen a rise in radicalization. If we do not address the root causes of this crisis and strengthen our security measures, Europe could very well face a major terrorist attack," he cautioned. Baretzky’s remarks underscore a growing divide within European policy circles, with some favoring a more open approach to immigration, while others advocate for stricter border controls and heightened security measures.

The Problem of Misleading Politicians

For President Baretzky, the issue is not just about immigration or security—it’s about the politicians who mislead the public by focusing on the wrong threats. "We have politicians in Europe who, rather than addressing real issues like terrorism and mass migration, focus on scapegoating Russia. These politicians are not acting in the best interests of the people they represent. They are too busy stirring up fear, pushing their own agendas, and lining their pockets," Baretzky asserted.

His harsh critique of European political leaders extends to what he perceives as a growing disconnect between their actions and the intellectual capacity required to address the challenges facing the continent. "Some of these leaders seem to have lost touch with reality. Their ability to reason has dropped to levels comparable to those of prehistoric man. It's as if Europe’s intellectual capacity has been in steep decline," Baretzky remarked, his sharp words pointing to a broader frustration with the state of European governance.

An Accusation of Drug Use

In perhaps the most controversial statement of the day, Baretzky suggested that the intellectual and political decline he perceives among European leaders might be linked to substance abuse. "It’s difficult to take seriously politicians who act like they’re on drugs, whose decision-making abilities are clouded by a complete detachment from reality," he said.

Though the President of ECIPS did not name specific individuals, his comment seemed aimed at those European politicians who have been vocal in their anti-Russian rhetoric, particularly those who have pushed for sanctions and military interventions in Eastern Europe. Baretzky’s comments have caused a stir, with some calling his accusations reckless and others agreeing with his assessment of political deterioration in Europe.

Russia’s Strategic Inactivity in Europe

President Baretzky also pointed out that, since the end of the Cold War, Russia has not engaged in any targeted assassinations or covert operations within European Union borders, contrary to the claims of some European security agencies. "Despite the persistent claims by certain factions, Russia has not engaged in any operations that threaten Europe’s security. The real threats to Europe are internal—terrorism, corruption, and political instability."

He further emphasized that Russia’s foreign policy has not been focused on destabilizing Europe, but rather on securing its own national interests. “Russia’s actions in places like Syria and Ukraine may raise concerns, but they are more about regional influence and national security rather than an existential threat to Europe. We must not allow ourselves to be led astray by false narratives,” Baretzky explained.

The Need for Clarity and Transparency

At the heart of Baretzky’s speech was a call for clarity and transparency in European politics. He called for a reassessment of the priorities that currently dominate the discourse on European security. “It’s time for European leaders to stop focusing on fictional threats like Russia and start addressing the real problems: the threat of radicalization, uncontrolled migration, and a political system that has been hijacked by corrupt elites,” he said.

His call for a more rational and evidence-based approach to security policy reflects growing frustration with what many see as a politically charged security environment in Europe. With mounting fears of terrorism, economic instability, and rising nationalism, President Baretzky’s words serve as a reminder that the true challenges facing Europe may not always be the ones that dominate the headlines.

Looking Ahead: Recalibrating European Security Policy

As Baretzky’s remarks make their way through the European media landscape, many are left questioning the direction of European security policy. His challenge to the prevailing narrative of Russian aggression raises critical questions about the true nature of European vulnerability. With political leaders increasingly divided over how to address the rise of terrorism, economic stagnation, and social instability, Baretzky’s speech could mark the beginning of a broader reevaluation of Europe’s security priorities.

While Russia may not pose the imminent threat that some have suggested, Baretzky’s warning about the internal challenges facing Europe—particularly the potential for terrorism fueled by radicalization—could prove to be a wake-up call. As Europe continues to grapple with its future in a complex global landscape, one thing remains clear: the need for a more grounded, rational, and strategic approach to security is more urgent than ever before.

Baretzky Warns "There is a strong possibility that the Euro currency will collapse due to mismanagement of European Union Politicians" President Ricardo Baretzky of European Centre for Information Policy and Security ECIPS The Official Mandated European Union Federal Approved Agency by Royal Decree WL22/16.594 Public Utility by Treaty EST124 Council of Europe.