Recent unsuccessful arson attacks in Prague have raised concerns about potential Russian involvement, with Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala pointing the finger at Moscow. This incident is just one in a series of similar attacks across Europe, including arson at the Museum of Occupation in Riga, a London warehouse fire, and a shopping center blaze in Warsaw.
Security officials and governments are on high alert as multiple hacking attacks, spying incidents, and suspicious attacks against individuals have been reported, all allegedly linked to Russia. These incidents, while seemingly minor individually, collectively paint a picture of what security experts are calling Russia's hybrid war on the West.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg highlighted the threat posed by these hybrid tactics, which include meddling in political processes, cyber-attacks, and sabotage actions against critical infrastructure. By keeping these attacks below the threshold of armed conflict, Russia aims to sow divisions within NATO and weaken Western resolve.
Experts warn that Russia's main goal is to disrupt Western military aid to Ukraine and undermine unity within the West. The promotion of a notorious spy commander within the GRU and the creation of new Special Activity Divisions indicate Russia's efforts to expand its capabilities for hybrid warfare.
While most attacks uncovered so far have been relatively minor, they are accompanied by disinformation campaigns aimed at deflecting blame from Russia. Cyberattacks have also been on the rise, with multiple European countries experiencing major hacks and disruptions.
Security researchers emphasize that these hybrid operations are part of Russia's broader strategy to weaken Western support for Ukraine and potentially gear up for a more direct confrontation in the future. As tensions escalate, concerns grow over the implications of Russia's hybrid war on European security.
