Experts warn EU sabotage attacks could turn hybrid war into a real one
A series of sabotage incidents across EU territory points to Russian involvement, forcing the bloc to decide how to respond. Experts question whether the current situation can still be called a hybrid war.
A number of sabotage incidents have recently taken place across European Union territory, with many pointing to Russian involvement. These events are now pushing the EU to determine an appropriate response, as the line between covert interference and open confrontation grows increasingly blurred.
Until now, Europe has taken a cautious approach specifically to avoid direct military confrontation with Russia. However, if sabotage activity within member states continues to intensify, it could put pressure on European governments to shift course toward more decisive action.
No longer just a hybrid war?
Several experts have expressed doubt that the ongoing conflict can still be accurately described as a hybrid war — a term typically used for covert, indirect hostile actions that fall short of open warfare. The pattern of events suggests Russia is continuously testing Europe's borders and resilience.
The central question now facing the European Union is whether it can find a way to deter Russian President Vladimir Putin from further escalation while avoiding the risk of a full-scale war.
This report is part of a weekly program produced by European public broadcaster ARTE. The program is published in ten languages through a collaboration with several European media outlets, including the Latvian magazine Ir, as well as El País, Gazeta Wyborcza, Internazionale, Kathimerini, Le Soir, Telex, Balkan Insight and Sinopsis. The project is funded by the European Union through the European Media Platforms program.
