NATO reported a sharp increase in Russian hybrid attacks
NATO has noted not only an increase in the number of Russian hybrid attacks on Alliance countries, but also their greater danger and Russia’s willingness to take risks.
According to a NATO spokesperson, more than 200 such incidents were recorded last year. Routine daily cyberattacks are not included in these statistics. The Alliance’s headquarters itself is attacked thousands of times every month.
NATO cited the incident at Leipzig/Halle Airport in Germany—where a drone carrying an explosive device was discovered—as one of the most recent examples. According to a NATO representative, the nature of the explosive suggests possible direct involvement by Russian intelligence. Germany and NATO view this case as a hybrid attack, even though the device did not detonate.
The Alliance believes that Moscow is seeking to weaken political and practical support for Ukraine while simultaneously laying the groundwork for further escalation. Among the threats are reconnaissance of critical infrastructure and logistics, as well as the covert installation of malware in industrial control systems.
“The number is growing, the severity is increasing, and the risk appetite is rising,” noted a NATO representative.
To counter these threats, the Alliance plans to strengthen the protection of critical infrastructure and establish a Critical Energy Infrastructure Network. This network is intended to facilitate information sharing among operators, joint emergency response exercises, counter-drone measures, and cybersecurity.
In the event of particularly serious cyber incidents, NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander may also ask member countries to deploy offensive cyber capabilities.
Source: dpa, NATO.
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