NATO ready for Russian hybrid attacks, Rutte says
NATO stands ready to counter Russian cyberattacks and other forms of hybrid warfare, Secretary General Mark Rutte said, calling for increased military support for Ukraine to deter escalating hostile actions from Moscow.
“Russia is stepping up its actions in cyber and other areas,” Rutte noted, stressing the alliance's determination to safeguard member states against destabilisation.
Deterrence through support
“We have all these response options available to counter hybrid threats, to ensure we stay strong,” the NATO chief said. He urged partner nations to provide Ukraine with more resources if they genuinely intend to send a resolute signal to the Kremlin following each hybrid attack or security incident.
European capitals remain on high alert over potential Russian interference, concerned that Moscow could target Western allies as the war in Ukraine enters its fifth year.
Rising sabotage risks
Rutte's remarks follow an assessment released on Thursday, September 24, by Denmark's military intelligence service, which warned that Russia is likely to mount additional hybrid strikes against Western targets. The agency noted that while a direct Russian military invasion of a NATO country cannot be entirely ruled out, it remains “unlikely.”
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk also cautioned last week against Moscow's hybrid aggression, pointing to drone incursions, missile strikes, and sabotage operations designed to intimidate Kyiv’s allies.
Poland, a NATO and EU member on the alliance's eastern flank, has repeatedly accused Russia of orchestrating sabotage plots and hybrid campaigns since the launch of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
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