Relations between great powers have worsened in recent years, prompting High Representative Josep Borrell to assert that the European Union must learn to “use the language of power”. When it comes to the EU’s relations with Russia in particular, the need for such a language has become evident. Borrell’s trip this week to visit his counterpart Sergey Lavrov takes place amid major protests over Alexey Navalny’s poisoning and detention, prompting calls for a tougher European approach towards Moscow. However, a shifting global landscape ensures that Russia will remain both a challenge and a partner for a more strategically conscious EU.