The European Union’s chief diplomat has condemned Russia and Iran for allegedly engaging in “state-sponsored terrorism” against Europe. This statement was made in light of recent revelations indicating that Russian operatives are actively recruiting individuals across Europe to engage in disinformation campaigns, sabotage, and cyberattacks.
Pro-Russia hacktivists targeting individuals
Investigations by European public broadcasters uncovered that pro-Russian hacktivist groups have been reaching out to potential recruits via the social media platform Telegram. These groups are seeking individuals willing to partake in acts of vandalism and support disruptive operations throughout Europe.
Journalists disclosed that they received direct solicitations to execute various forms of sabotage, such as placing anti-NATO stickers in the EU quarter and gathering email addresses of around 30 Belgian journalists perceived to be sympathetic to Ukraine. In exchange for their participation, individuals were promised payment in cryptocurrency.
Escalating hybrid threats
“This is the war that is going on in the shadows,” EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas stated during an interview with Belgian broadcaster VRT.
Recent incidents have included a range of malicious activities, from cyberattacks and espionage to targeted arson, the sabotage of undersea cables, and GPS interference. Kallas highlighted that these attacks targeting Europe have significantly increased.
The EU and NATO have been enhancing their defenses against these emerging “hybrid threats” over recent months, with Kallas specifically identifying Russia and Iran as particularly active players in this domain. Despite discussions surrounding a potential cease-fire between Ukraine and Russia, security officials caution that such diplomatic efforts are unlikely to halt these forms of aggression within Europe.
NATO’s Deputy Assistant Secretary-General for Innovation, Hybrid, and Cyber, James Appathurai, expressed his firm belief that cyberattacks will persist, even if an agreement is reached between Moscow and Kyiv. He elaborated, stating, “Adversaries cannot attack us militarily and do not intend to do so. But they are frustrated and want to execute their ambitions in other ways.”