European states warn of more Russian hybrid operations near borders
Drone incursions, sabotage concerns and repeated military alerts have heightened fears that Russia is intensifying pressure on European countries supporting Ukraine. Moldova, Romania and Poland have reported airspace violations or incidents, while officials in the region warn that hybrid operations could increase in the coming months.
European governments are warning that Russia could intensify hybrid operations against countries supporting Ukraine after a rise in drone incursions, suspected sabotage and military alerts. The situation has changed sharply in recent months, with unauthorized flights reported more frequently in central and southeastern Europe. Authorities have closed airspace or suspended operations after crashes and explosions, while Russia continues attacks near Ukraine’s borders.
Moldova said four drones entered its airspace, with two exploding on its territory and wreckage from another being found. Northern airspace was temporarily closed. Two drones also entered Romanian airspace, one crashing near Solca, and a nearby border crossing with Ukraine was closed.
NATO aircraft were scrambled near the Danube Delta. Poland reported that NATO fighters were scrambled twice in response to Russian attacks near the Ukrainian border. Two Polish border crossings were evacuated after a fire at a Starlink ground station, and the Polish military said a Russian Mi-8 helicopter spent 42 seconds in Polish airspace.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk said Russia was refining what he called “disgusting forms of pressure” and seeking to exhaust both Ukraine and Europe. Moldova’s President Maia Sandu said the war posed a danger to the whole continent. Romanian officials took a more restrained public position, although the defence minister said a crashed drone had new technical features.
There has also been speculation about possible attacks farther west. A reported CIA warning about potential drone attacks on Italy, France and Spain has not been officially confirmed. French President Emmanuel Macron called the possibility plausible.
Danish officials described the current situation as the most serious since the end of the Cold War.
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