Rubio warns Russia's war against Ukraine could spread to other countries

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Wednesday in New York, during the UN General Assembly session, that he is concerned Russia's war against Ukraine could spread to other countries. He pointed to risks from hybrid attacks and sabotage, as well as potential misunderstandings that could escalate into direct military clashes.

Rubio gave an example of a pilot accidentally flying in the wrong direction, which could quickly turn into an active battle. He stressed that this issue has come up in numerous meetings with representatives of various countries, as the concerns are considered well-founded. The statement came shortly after Rubio met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

Leipzig incident

Asked by a journalist about Russia's alleged sabotage attempt at Leipzig airport in Germany, Rubio answered broadly without directly addressing the specific case. In early August, an explosive-laden drone was found near a cargo aircraft bound for Ukraine at that airport, and the German government blamed Russia for the incident.

Warnings from other leaders

US President Donald Trump last week also accused Russia of attacking countries that support Ukraine, saying such actions have been ongoing for roughly five years. Meanwhile, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has warned that he expects an increase in Russian attacks both against Ukraine and against countries backing Kyiv. According to intelligence reports cited by Tusk, nations providing aid to Ukraine, including Poland, could face drone and missile attacks staged to look accidental.