European governments are stepping up security preparations amid warnings over Russian hybrid activity and possible attacks amid growing drone-related incidents.
European governments are stepping up security preparations amid growing concern over Russian hybrid activity, possible drone or missile attacks and a series of recent airspace violations and sabotage attempts.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned Thursday that Moscow could send drones or missiles into NATO countries supporting Ukraine in the coming months. His warning came as Germany prepares hospitals for a possible conflict, Lithuania updates evacuation plans and NATO troops conduct exercises in the Baltic region.
French President Emmanuel Macron called Tusk’s warning “sound and well-documented” and said the Russian hybrid threat against France and other Europeans had intensified. Macron also announced a new plan to protect critical infrastructure.
Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten said Tusk’s warning should be taken seriously, while Finnish President Alexander Stubb said people should be mentally prepared for possible incidents including sabotage and Russian drones.
Russia has also increased its rhetoric. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warned Europe this week that it would face a “very short” war if NATO allies attempted to attack Russia.
Switzerland Strengthens Defenses, Drone Activity Disrupts Luxembourg Airport
Switzerland’s Federal Council on Friday adopted a new national security strategy designed to prepare the country for what it described as an increasingly unstable international environment.
The 2026 Security Policy Strategy identifies three priorities: strengthening the resilience of the state, economy and society; protecting civilians, institutions and critical infrastructure; and improving Switzerland’s defense capabilities.
The strategy contains 10 objectives and 46 measures, with hybrid and remote attacks and organized crime identified among the most likely threats within Switzerland. The government also cited Russia’s war against Ukraine, cyberattacks and influence operations as growing security challenges.
Meanwhile, suspected drone activity disrupted flights at Luxembourg Airport in Findel on Friday evening. Incoming flights were diverted, while at least one flight from London City was redirected to Liège. A passenger told the Luxembourg Times that the pilot later told passengers that “drones are still flying over the airport.” A widely shared aviation notice also warned pilots about drone activity in the area.
The developments come as NATO allies continue military exercises and monitor a series of incidents across Europe. NATO jets recently shot down a Russian drone over Lithuania, while German and Swedish forces conducted joint exercises near Sweden’s Gotland island.
Despite the growing warnings, NATO said there was currently no imminent threat of attack. A NATO official said the alliance must nevertheless avoid being “naive or complacent” and ensure it remains strong in the years ahead.