Weakness on display as wartime closes in on Europe

Europe faces growing threat of sabotage and cyber attacks as wartime nears, warns former defence official. Former senior Ministry of Defence official Peter Watkins says it's probable that civilian sites will increasingly be targeted, echoing Russia's tactics in Ukraine. The attacks, including cyber attacks on supermarket meat freezers, airline bomb hoaxes, and an attempted assault on a French blood bank, show a scaled-down campaign of Ukraine-style disruption.

Analysts believe Russia and Iran may be working together to destabilise the continent. Grey-zone warfare is intensifying, aimed at undermining public confidence in governments and disrupting everyday life. British officials acknowledge an increase in hybrid warfare-based acts and pledge to resist infiltration. Governments urge citizens to stockpile essential supplies in case of a major attack.

Russia has identified European weaknesses that could be exploited, warning of potential sabotage networks and sleeper cells activated by Russia and Iran. Iran's cyber operations may deepen if the US and Israel launch further attacks on Iranian energy sites. European governments should prepare for sustained campaigns of hybrid attacks, targeting critical infrastructure, shipping, or rail transport.