Russia plotting false-flag operations across Europe to discredit Ukraine
Illustrative photo: Russia is preparing new provocations to destabilize Europe (RBC-Ukraine collage)
Russia is preparing new provocations to destabilize Europe. The goal is to reduce or cut off external support for Ukraine by discrediting the Ukrainian Armed Forces and intimidating European governments and societies, according to Ukraine's Defense Intelligence (HUR).
According to Ukrainian military intelligence, Russia may be planning provocative sabotage operations in Central and Eastern Europe, including the Baltic states.
Moscow's plans reportedly include several scenarios, including “false-flag operations” followed by accusations against Ukraine spread through Russian propaganda channels and international platforms available to the Kremlin.
According to HUR, potential targets for Russian provocations could include critical infrastructure, areas along Russia's borders, the Kaliningrad exclave, regions in EU countries with Russian-speaking populations, and sites controlled by the Kremlin. These could include facilities belonging to the Russian Orthodox Church network and historical sites associated with Russia.
The threat Russia poses to Europe
Earlier, it was reported that the European Commission was preparing proposals to tighten visa rules for Russian citizens.
In Brussels, officials believe stricter controls would help protect EU countries against potential hybrid attacks, including sabotage.
The move comes as European countries have increasingly warned about the threat of Russian sabotage, cyberattacks and provocations. NATO says Moscow is testing the security of its allies and could continue its campaign of hostile activities.
In September, Lithuania reported intelligence suggesting that Russia might be preparing “false-flag” operations in Europe.
France has also warned of a real threat of hybrid attacks. French authorities have identified cyberattacks, sabotage, and drones appearing near European airports among the risks.
