russian intelligence services have received orders to increase their activity across European Union and NATO member states as part of preparations for new hybrid operations, according to Ukraine's Defense Intelligence.
According to Ukrainian intelligence, the planned operations are intended to undermine military support for Ukraine and weaken the capabilities of the NATO Alliance. The activities could include both covert influence operations and acts of sabotage.
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The Kremlin reportedly plans to use agents recruited by russia's GRU and FSB to carry out the operations in Europe.
Ukraine's Defense Intelligence says russian intelligence agencies are focusing on a range of potential targets, including military facilities, critical infrastructure and communications systems. The reported focus indicates that the planned activity could extend beyond political influence operations to attacks on physical infrastructure.
Among the potential targets identified by Ukrainian intelligence are Starlink satellite internet ground stations located in European countries. These facilities could be targeted as part of efforts to disrupt communications infrastructure.
The warning comes as European countries continue to provide military, financial and other forms of support to Ukraine. Disrupting infrastructure and communications could therefore be aimed at weakening the logistical and operational capabilities supporting Ukraine.
Ukraine's Defense Intelligence did not provide details on specific countries where the alleged operations are expected to take place or disclose information about particular planned attacks. The service also did not specify when the reported operations could be launched.
Ukraine's intelligence said it had informed its international partners about the alleged plans of russian intelligence services. The warning is intended to help European and NATO countries prepare for potential hybrid and sabotage operations on their territory.
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