EU seeks NATO-style response to Russian hybrid attacks
The bloc's defense ministers will consider an emergency security protocol amid Moscow's growing threats across Europe.
EU defense ministers are seeking a NATO-style response to Russian hybrid attacks, according to reports from Brussels. The Foreign Affairs Council meeting focused on an "Emergency Security Protocol" as a broader strategy against these attacks, said EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas. The protocol, proposed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, aims to mirror NATO's Article 4, which allows a member to call for allied discussions if its security is threatened.
The EU institutions will work with member countries to determine how EU tools could be used in the protocol response, such as in cases of drone incursions, sabotage, and cyberattacks. Hybrid activity related to Russia has surged recently, with drone incursions, crashes, and explosions becoming frequent occurrences in Eastern European countries bordering Ukraine.
Experts speculate that the Kremlin might expand its hybrid campaign to Western Europe. Finnish Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen stated that the protocol could involve sanctions and restrictions on Russian tourists' visas. However, attributing hybrid attacks accurately is a crucial issue in determining the EU's response. Estonia is currently investigating a suspected Russian sabotage attack, and Estonia's Defense Minister Martin Herem emphasized the need to find the culprit before taking action.
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