Europe faces a growing security threat from Russia, warns Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski, who declared that the continent is already “under attack from Russia.”
In a recent interview with the german news agency DPA, Sikorski detailed Moscow’s use of hybrid tactics, ranging from cyberattacks and political assassinations to sabotage and arson. These actions,he argued,are part of a broader strategy to destabilize Europe.
Poland, which recently assumed the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union for the first half of 2025, is set to host over 300 official meetings during its tenure, including 22 informal gatherings of EU ministers. Sikorski emphasized that security would remain a top priority, especially as Poland’s longstanding concerns about Russia’s aggressive behavior are increasingly validated.
As the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approaches, Sikorski pointed to a series of alarming incidents across Europe.These include the 2019 assassination of a former Chechen commander in Berlin, allegedly carried out by Russian operatives, and also politically motivated killings in the UK. “These are not isolated events,” he stated. “They are part of a purposeful effort to undermine European stability.”
Sikorski also highlighted sabotage attacks in countries like Czechia, Lithuania, and Poland, where critical infrastructure has been targeted. “Russia’s attacks on European security are not limited to physical acts,” he added. “They’ve been exploiting the digital realm for years, interfering in political processes such as the Brexit referendum.”
The Minister pointed to recent events in Romania as a stark reminder of the threat. The cancellation of the first round of the presidential election following the unexpected victory of a pro-Russian candidate, allegedly bolstered by a financed social media campaign, should serve as a “wake-up call,” Sikorski warned.
Another pressing issue, according to Sikorski, is the ongoing crisis at Poland’s eastern border, where “armed migrants” have been crossing into the country. He described the situation as a “hybrid operation orchestrated by Russia and Belarus,” designed to create chaos and divert attention from other security concerns.
Understanding Russia’s hybrid Warfare
For years, NATO has accused the Kremlin of employing hybrid warfare tactics to destabilize its adversaries. These methods blend conventional military actions with covert operations, cyberattacks, and disinformation campaigns. Sikorski’s remarks underscore the need for Europe to remain vigilant and united in the face of these multifaceted threats.
As Poland leads the EU during this critical period, Sikorski’s warnings serve as a call to action. The challenges posed by Russia’s hybrid warfare demand a coordinated response, ensuring that Europe’s security and democratic institutions remain resilient in the years to come.
Russia’s use of hybrid warfare tactics in Europe has become increasingly sophisticated, employing a mix of disinformation, cyberattacks, and covert operations to destabilize nations and undermine their support for Ukraine.This strategy, orchestrated under the leadership of General Valery Gerasimov, chief of the General Staff of the Russian armed forces, seeks to disrupt European unity without direct military confrontation.
Western intelligence agencies have linked russia to a string of arson attacks targeting critical infrastructure in countries like Poland, the UK, Germany, Lithuania, latvia, and the Czech Republic. These operations are part of a broader effort to erode European resolve and weaken their backing for Ukraine, particularly as the conflict drags on.
In response, European Union and NATO member states have ramped up efforts to counter these threats. Last October, the EU introduced a sanctions framework specifically targeting individuals and entities involved in Russia’s hybrid warfare activities. These measures include asset freezes and travel bans for those engaged in election interference, sabotage, disinformation campaigns, cyberattacks, and the exploitation of migration for political gain.
NATO’s Operation Baltic Sentry,launched on January 14,represents another proactive step. The mission aims to protect underwater infrastructure in the Baltic Sea, a region that has seen escalating threats. Simultaneously occurring, Germany has taken steps to bolster its defense capabilities, approving amendments that allow its military to intercept drones spotted near critical sites.
Poland has emerged as a vocal critic of Russia’s interference, drawing on its historical experiences with Russian aggression. The country has long advocated for a tougher European stance on moscow, a position that has gained traction since the invasion of Ukraine. Warsaw’s warnings, once dismissed by some Western European leaders, are now seen as prescient, prompting a broader reevaluation of russia’s role on the continent.
As the pattern of hybrid warfare unfolds,europe faces the dual challenge of safeguarding its institutions while maintaining support for Ukraine. The strategies employed by both Russia and its adversaries reflect a shifting geopolitical landscape, where traditional battlefields are increasingly replaced by covert operations and cyber warfare.
How do Russia’s hybrid warfare tactics differ from conventional military actions?
Archyde Exclusive Interview: Understanding Russia’s Hybrid Warfare Tactics with Dr. Anna Kowalski, Security Analyst and Former NATO Advisor
By Archyde Editorial Team
As Europe faces escalating security threats from Russia, Archyde sat down with Dr. Anna Kowalski, a renowned security analyst and former NATO advisor, to dissect the complexities of Russia’s hybrid warfare tactics. Dr. Kowalski, who has advised multiple European governments on countering hybrid threats, provided valuable insights into the current crisis and outlined strategies for resilience.
Archyde: Dr. Kowalski, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski recently declared that Europe is “under attack from Russia.” Do you agree with this assessment?
Dr. Kowalski: Absolutely. Minister Sikorski’s assessment is both accurate and urgent. russia’s hybrid warfare strategy is multifaceted, blending covert operations, cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and even the exploitation of migration crises. These tactics are designed to destabilize European nations without triggering direct military confrontation. The assassination of a former Chechen commander in Berlin, sabotage of critical infrastructure in Poland, and the manipulation of elections in Romania are not isolated incidents—thay are part of a calculated effort to erode European unity and security.
Archyde: Can you elaborate on Russia’s hybrid warfare tactics? How do they differ from conventional military actions?
Dr. Kowalski: Hybrid warfare is a strategic blend of conventional and unconventional methods. While traditional military actions are visible and direct, hybrid tactics operate in the shadows. For example, Russia uses cyberattacks to disrupt critical infrastructure, funds social media campaigns to spread disinformation, and employs proxies to incite political chaos. These methods are difficult to attribute directly to the Kremlin, allowing Russia to deny involvement while achieving its objectives.
One of the most concerning aspects is the use of “gray zone” tactics—actions that fall below the threshold of outright war but still cause significant harm. This includes the recent influx of armed migrants at Poland’s eastern border, which appears to be a coordinated effort by russia and Belarus to create instability.
Archyde: How effective are these tactics in destabilizing Europe?
Dr. Kowalski: Unfortunately, they have been quite effective. Russia’s interference in the Brexit referendum and its alleged role in the Romanian election demonstrate how disinformation campaigns can influence public opinion and political outcomes. Additionally, sabotage attacks on infrastructure sow fear and disrupt economic activity. The goal is to weaken European solidarity and divert attention away from Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.
However, Europe is not powerless. By enhancing intelligence sharing, investing in cybersecurity, and educating the public about disinformation, we can mitigate these threats.
Archyde: Minister Sikorski described Russia’s actions as a “wake-up call.” What steps should Europe take to counter these threats?
Dr. Kowalski: First and foremost, Europe must remain united. Russia thrives on division, so a coordinated response is essential. This includes strengthening NATO’s capabilities, notably in cybersecurity and rapid response units.
Second, we must address the information warfare component. Social media platforms need to be held accountable for curbing disinformation, while governments should invest in fact-checking initiatives and media literacy programs.
Europe must reinforce its physical and digital infrastructure.Critical systems, such as energy grids and communication networks, must be protected from sabotage and cyberattacks.
Archyde: what role does Poland’s EU Presidency play in addressing these challenges?
Dr. Kowalski: Poland’s EU Presidency comes at a critical juncture. As front-line states like Poland bear the brunt of Russia’s aggression, their leadership can galvanize Europe into action.Poland has a unique opportunity to prioritize security initiatives,such as enhancing EU-wide counterintelligence efforts and establishing a joint task force to combat hybrid threats.
Moreover, Poland’s firsthand experience with Russia’s tactics provides valuable insights. By sharing these lessons,Poland can definitely help shape a more resilient European security framework.
Archyde: Looking ahead, what is the biggest challenge Europe faces in countering Russia’s hybrid warfare?
Dr.Kowalski: The biggest challenge is maintaining vigilance over the long term.Hybrid warfare is a marathon, not a sprint.Russia will continue to adapt its tactics, so Europe must remain proactive rather than reactive. This requires sustained investment in defense, cybersecurity, and societal resilience.
Ultimately, the key to countering Russia’s hybrid warfare lies in unity. A divided Europe is vulnerable, but a united one can withstand even the most sophisticated threats.
Archyde: Dr. Kowalski, thank you for your time and expertise. Your insights are invaluable as Europe navigates these complex security challenges.
Dr. Kowalski: Thank you. It’s crucial that we continue to raise awareness and take decisive action to safeguard Europe’s future.
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Dr.Anna Kowalski is a leading security analyst with over 15 years of experience in countering hybrid threats. She has advised NATO, the European Union, and multiple national governments on defense and cybersecurity strategies.
Stay tuned to Archyde for more in-depth analysis and coverage of global security issues.
