Europe prepares for wider war as Russia ramps up ‘hybrid threats’
European countries are growing concerned that Russia may decide to strike beyond the borders of Ukraine, leading governments across the continent to warn that any attempt by Moscow to destabilize the region will backfire.
TL;DR
- European countries are worried Russia may strike beyond Ukraine's borders, issuing warnings that such destabilization attempts will backfire.
- Recent incidents include a Russian warship firing flares near a Danish helicopter and a drone shot down over Lithuanian airspace, which Moscow has not claimed responsibility for.
- These actions are viewed as "hybrid threats" designed to weaken Western resolve in supporting Ukraine.
- Germany previously blamed Russia for an attempted drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport, which Moscow denied.
- France has warned of intensified Russian threats and is formulating plans to protect critical infrastructure.
- President Macron will call for an emergency G7 meeting to discuss the Russia-Ukraine war and energy prices.
- Neutral Switzerland is adopting a new security policy to protect itself from future Russian attacks.
- NATO states there is "no imminent threat" but vows to remain strong and not be complacent.
- Sweden and Germany are conducting military exercises in the Baltic Sea, and NATO allies held exercises near Kaliningrad.
- Poland warns Russia may send drones or missiles into NATO countries to "weaken NATO’s integrity."
- The U.S. is establishing a new Army base in Poland and a permanent military presence in Greenland.