Europe thinks the unthinkable: Retaliating against Russia

⭐ Join our community and access the best we offer!

illuminem summarises for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on POLITICO or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: Europe is considering stronger responses to Russia's escalating hybrid warfare tactics, including joint offensive cyber operations and surprise NATO-led military exercises
• These discussions have gained momentum as Russia's drone attacks and other provocations against NATO members, like Poland and Romania, intensify
• European leaders are now debating how to retaliate effectively without crossing the line into open conflict

🔭 The context: The current wave of hybrid attacks, including drone strikes, misinformation campaigns, and military provocations, has prompted calls from European officials for more proactive measures
• NATO and EU countries are exploring ways to increase cyber capabilities and strengthen defenses while maintaining a defensive posture
• This comes amid growing concerns that Russia is testing the limits of European tolerance and response

🌍 Why it matters for the planet:Europe's potential move towards offensive cyber tactics and increased military readiness has implications not only for security but also for geopolitical stability
• By countering hybrid threats, Europe aims to defend its sovereignty and deter further destabilization efforts by Russia
• However, any aggressive response must be carefully calibrated to avoid triggering wider conflict, especially given Russia's nuclear capabilities and the ongoing war in Ukraine

⏭️ What's next: Europe will likely continue to discuss and test these new defense strategies
• NATO's focus on rapid attribution of attacks and joint military exercises near Russia’s borders may be key elements of this evolving response
• While military action remains a last resort, cyber operations and enhanced intelligence-sharing will likely play a central role in Europe's defensive strategy

💬 One quote: “We cannot allow ourselves to be fearful and have a lot of angst for escalation. We need to be firm.” — Swedish Chief of Defense Gen. Michael Claesson

📈 One stat: There were more than 110 hybrid attacks across Europe in the first half of 2025, primarily in Poland and France, with links to Russian operatives

See on illuminem's Data Hub™ the sustainability performance — carbon credit purchases, total emissions, and climate targets of thousands of companies

Click for more news covering the latest on public governance