Russia could widen Ukraine war, test NATO with covert attacks, Europe warns
Officials say Russia is intensifying below-threshold operations to weaken NATO unity and test the alliance’s response, with 340 drone incidents reported near British military sites.
- More than four years into Russia's invasion of Ukraine, European nations worry Moscow could escalate the conflict beyond Ukraine, with Western officials warning of sabotage, cyberattacks, drone incidents and possible tests of NATO's resolve.
- Russian forces are losing momentum in eastern Ukraine with the war stalled deep into its fifth year, where widespread drone use has made large-scale troop movements almost impossible despite the Kremlin's continued demands for full control of Donetsk.
- France's armed forces chief Fabien Mandon estimated in August that Russia loses between 30,000 and 35,000 troops monthly, while Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned last week that Moscow plans "strikes using drones and missiles on countries supporting Ukraine" to weaken NATO unity.
- Berlin blamed Moscow this month after explosive-laden drones were discovered at Leipzig airport, while the United Kingdom has reportedly faced around 340 drone incidents near military sites since August 2025, and Russian intelligence services have intensified cyberattacks and airspace challenges.
- French researcher Celine Marange said uncertainty over U.S. presidential response to hybrid attacks "is in itself a victory for Moscow," as researcher David Cattler notes Russians want incidents "small enough" to avoid conventional response while maintaining ambiguity about attribution.
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In the interview, political scientist Carlo Masala analyses diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine and Russia's hybrid warfare in Europe. "There is no 100% protection," says Masala.
The war continues to rage in Ukraine, while Russia is suspected of being behind sabotage actions and drone incidents in several European countries. Get the latest news here.
The Economic Times
Times of IndiaRussia could widen Ukraine war, test NATO with covert attacks, Europe warns
More than four years into Russias invasion of Ukraine, a stagnant frontline and intensifying covert activity across Europe are fuelling concern that Moscow could widen the conflict beyond Ukraine. Western officials and European leaders are warning of sabotage, cyberattacks, drone incidents and possible tests of NATOs resolve.
Russia is now increasing its pressure on Europe with renewed alarm about hybrid attacks and attack plans. But our fear of the next attack can put us in an even more dangerous position – where we find ourselves in the middle of the battlefield.
Crypto Briefing
Cryptocurrency News | Cryptocurrency Prices | Market CapRussia intensifies hybrid warfare in Europe, heightening security risks
Russia's intensified hybrid warfare in Europe raises geopolitical tensions, potentially impacting market stability and military risk assessments.
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