US intelligence warned Europe about a new scenario of RF attacks in the Mediterranean - El Mundo

American intelligence received information about Russia possibly preparing a new drone operation against NATO countries in the Mediterranean. Spain, France and Italy are named as potential targets, writes El Mundo citing sources familiar with the intelligence data.

According to the publication, the relevant information was passed by the US to several European governments. One of the possible scenarios involves the launch of small Russian drones from commercial vessels near the European coast. The devices could be transported covertly, in particular in containers.

El Mundo claims that the intelligence assessment includes drones of the "Gerbera" type. Due to their relatively small warhead, their use would not necessarily imply large-scale destruction. Potential consequences could include fires, equipment damage, as well as temporary disruption to the operation of ports, airports or other infrastructure facilities.

There is currently no public confirmation from the CIA or the governments of Spain, France and Italy regarding exactly this scenario. Therefore, the information about Russia's concrete plan remains a report by El Mundo, based on unnamed sources.

At the same time, US concerns about the possibility of Russian escalation against NATO were confirmed earlier. CIA Director John Ratcliffe made an unannounced visit to Moscow on August 25, during which, according to The Wall Street Journal, he warned the Russian side against attacks on Alliance countries. Particular attention was then paid to the Baltic states.

Against the background of these risks, France has already strengthened security measures. After meetings of the Defence Council and a meeting of the political leadership on September 18, the Élysée Palace announced an increase in readiness for Russian hybrid threats. The government was instructed to prepare a plan for the protection of critical infrastructure and particularly sensitive defence industry facilities from drone attacks and cyberattacks. 

NATO also reports an increase in the number of Russian hybrid operations, including sabotage, cyberattacks, airspace violations and drone incidents. The Alliance links these actions to attempts to put pressure on countries supporting Ukraine.

Sources: El Mundo, The Wall Street Journal, Élysée Palace