Russian sabotage campaign targets Europe to disrupt Ukraine aid
The New York Times reports that Russia is organizing increasingly sophisticated sabotage actions in Europe to disrupt the supply of military equipment to Ukraine. According to US and allied intelligence assessments, these actions are part of a Russian campaign to undermine efforts to provide military support to Ukraine.
9:56 AM EDT, May 27, 2024
Among the sabotage actions mentioned by the "NYT" are the arson of a warehouse in England, a paint factory in Poland, residential buildings in Latvia, and an Ikea store in Lithuania. This campaign is reportedly being directed by Russian intelligence.
The newspaper reports that recent efforts have led to the apprehension of individuals working for Russia. They were allegedly planning attacks on American military bases.
"While the acts might appear random, American and European security officials say they are part of a concerted effort by Russia to slow arms transfers to Kyiv and create the appearance of growing European opposition to support for Ukraine," writes "NYT." To help create such an impression, native citizens of European countries are being involved in these actions.
Russians aim to disrupt supplies to Ukraine. Intelligence reveals actions
The newspaper notes that many of the Russian intelligence targets are not directly related to the war. "But some security officials say Russia is trying to sow fear and force European nations to add security throughout the weapons supply chain, adding costs and slowing the pace of transfers," it reads.
Americans also note that Russian agents are quite cautious in carrying out their diversionary actions. They want to cause unrest but effectively avoid direct accusations of causing it.
