From drones to assassins: Russia's hybrid war in Europe could turn deadly
Security experts warn that Russia's hybrid warfare in Europe is escalating from sabotage to potential targeted assassinations of defense officials. Germany has become a primary focus following a suspected drone attack on a cargo aircraft.
Why it matters
The potential shift toward lethal covert operations marks a dangerous escalation in the geopolitical tension between Russia and Western nations.
A growing series of suspected Russian sabotage operations across Europe is raising fears that Moscow’s campaign of covert pressure could escalate into attempts to kill senior defence officials and other prominent targets, security experts have warned.Germany has emerged as a particular focus of concern after Berlin formally accused Russia of orchestrating an attempted drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport on August 4. German authorities said an explosive-laden drone was found near a Ukrainian cargo aircraft and that the incident matched patterns seen in previous Russian hybrid operations. Moscow has denied the allegations.The warning comes amid a wider series of suspected acts of sabotage targeting critical infrastructure, defence facilities and government systems across Europe.
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