Once considered “taboo,” Russian assassination plots against European defense executives are escalating as its hybrid warfare grows bolder, intelligence agencies warn – FT
European spy agencies say Moscow is expanding covert operations against defense industry leaders, seeking to intimidate companies supplying weapons to Ukraine and weaken support for Kyiv.
Russian hybrid warfare tactics are escalating as the country expands its efforts to target European defense industry leaders, according to intelligence agencies cited by the Financial Times. The campaign, aimed at weakening support for Ukraine, involves assassinations of civilian targets, which were once considered taboo within Russian intelligence services.
European intelligence officials warn that Russian operatives are targeting CEOs and senior employees at defense companies, including smaller firms manufacturing drones and drone components. The threat is psychological, designed to make people reconsider doing business with Ukraine, and has prompted defense companies to strengthen security measures, such as increased personal protection and relocation of production sites.
Germany's BfV has stepped up contact with employees and management at German defense companies and recommended privately contracted close-protection teams.
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