Europe targeted by spiralling campaign of sabotage and Russia is the chief suspect
European nations are investigating a series of suspicious fires and sabotage attempts at defense facilities, with officials increasingly pointing to Russian hybrid operations. The incidents, including a drone attack at Leipzig airport, have prompted calls for increased security and a stronger response from NATO.
Why it matters
The escalation of suspected Russian sabotage in Europe marks a significant shift in geopolitical tensions and the nature of modern hybrid warfare.
Image source, Reuters Image caption, Germany said the attack at Leipzig airport was part of a pattern of "Russian hybrid operations" in Europe
As summer temperatures in Europe smashed records this summer and many politicians shifted to holiday mode, Russia remained focused on its war.
Not only did its military attacks across Ukraine intensify last month, becoming ever more deadly for civilians, Russia also appears to have escalated its sabotage campaign across Europe.
This time, military and defence sector sites were the prime target.
A full month after drones packed with explosives were found at Leipzig's airport, used by Ukraine to transport military goods, Germany's interior minister has declared that "Russia is responsible".
Russia's President Vladimir Putin is demanding proof, as always, and his officials call the accusation "absurd".
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