NATO Steps Up Vigilance Against Russian Hybrid Threats
NATO leaders have issued a series of warnings in recent weeks about rising Russian hybrid activity against alliance members, including possible provocations near Norway's Arctic islands, while announcing readiness to respond to a potential Russian false-flag attack.
NATO officials have repeatedly voiced concern in recent weeks over intensifying Russian hybrid activity targeting alliance member states and territories.
Tension over Svalbard
Particular concern surrounds Russia's rising hybrid activity on Norway's Svalbard archipelago in the Arctic. Analysts warn Moscow could provoke an incident that would test the mutual defense guarantee under Article 5 of NATO's founding treaty.
Call for more intelligence sharing
On September 24, NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Europe, U.S. Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, called on member states to share more intelligence on escalating hybrid threats.
New military committee chief
On September 19, it was announced that Germany's Gen. Carsten Breuer — long considered the front-runner — will become chair of NATO's Military Committee, the alliance's highest military authority, beating Canada's Gen. Jennie Carignan for the post.
Readiness for a false-flag attack
The same day, Adm. Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, chair of NATO's Military Committee, said the alliance is "ready" for a potential Russian false-flag attack. His remarks followed a string of warnings from European leaders over the preceding week about a growing risk of Russian escalation.
Taken together, the statements suggest NATO's leadership is bracing for possible provocation scenarios while working to improve coordination among member states on hybrid threats.
