Two recent reports by The Wall Street Journal and Reuters indicate that European concerns regarding Russia are no longer limited to the war in Ukraine. European officials have reportedly raised concerns both about the possibility of the conflict expanding toward NATO territory and about increasing Russian cyber operations, espionage activities, and sabotage efforts targeting Britain and Europe.
The Wall Street Journal reported that concerns have intensified in European capitals that Vladimir Putin, if the deadlock in Ukraine continues, could seek to alter the balance of the war through a broader expansion of the crisis, including possible pressure on Baltic countries.
The report referred to recent Russian statements directed at Latvia and Lithuania, warnings from Moscow regarding European companies cooperating with Ukraine in drone production, and Russia’s unexpected nuclear exercises.
Kaja Kallas told The Wall Street Journal that if the Kremlin requires another mobilization effort to continue the war, it may seek increased tensions to justify such measures — a scenario she described as “very dangerous.”
At the same time, Anne Keast-Butler, head of GCHQ, warned that Russia is continuously targeting critical infrastructure, democratic processes, supply chains, and public trust in Britain and across Europe.
She described the current situation as a “defining moment” and warned of an increased risk of miscalculation within the gray zone between peace and war.
The GCHQ chief also referred to British efforts to counter cyberattacks, technology smuggling, sabotage operations, and even alleged assassination attempts.
