Europe weighs solutions to curtail Russia’s growing hybrid warfare
Summary
European governments face increasing sabotage attacks linked to Russia amid the war in Ukraine. These attacks, often carried out by remote operatives paid in cryptocurrency, are hard to trace and aimed at disrupting support for Ukraine. Europe is responding with diplomatic and economic measures but struggles to find stronger actions without escalating to full military conflict.Key Facts
- Russia is suspected of running a sabotage campaign across Europe targeting defense facilities and infrastructure supporting Ukraine.
- Recent attacks include an explosives-laden drone found near a Ukrainian plane in Germany and various unexplained fires and explosions.
- Russian intelligence uses remote recruitment via Telegram channels, paying saboteurs in cryptocurrency to avoid direct involvement.
- European countries like Denmark reported Moscow recruiting local citizens for sabotage.
- Germany now quickly accuses Moscow of involvement, showing greater confidence and less patience for such attacks.
- Germany responded to attacks by closing a Russian cultural center and consulate, a limited retaliation to avoid escalation.
- European intelligence agencies mostly gather information and lack broad powers for covert operations abroad, limiting options.
- Some EU countries are proposing laws to increase intelligence surveillance powers.
- Europe has increased actions like detaining vessels linked to Russia’s "shadow fleet," e.g., Norway recently seized a Russian ship at Ukraine’s request.
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