Dutch Intelligence: Russia Expands Hybrid Threats Against Europe

Russia has intensified its hybrid operations targeting the Netherlands and other European allies, according to a new annual report released by the Dutch military intelligence service MIVD, The Gaze reports, citing Reuters. 

The agency warns that cyber attacks, espionage, and sabotage campaigns by Russian operatives are escalating, even as the war in Ukraine continues.

“We see the Russian threat against Europe is increasing, including after a possible end to the war against Ukraine,” said MIVD director Peter Reesink in the report.

Among the most alarming revelations was a thwarted Russian cyber sabotage attempt against a Dutch public service — the first of its kind in the country.

“In the Netherlands, we saw the first (Russian) cyber sabotage act against a public service, with the aim of gaining control of the system. It was thwarted, but it was the first time,” Reesink confirmed. The report did not identify which service was targeted.

MIVD also uncovered a Russian cyber operation aimed at critical infrastructure, which could have been preparation for future acts of sabotage. These findings align with growing concerns across the West about the increasing aggression of so-called “hybrid threats” — which include not just cyber attacks, but also disinformation, espionage, and physical sabotage.

The report reiterated prior warnings that Russian operatives are mapping infrastructure in the North Sea, with potential sabotage targets including underwater internet cables, water systems, and energy supplies.

Such tactics mirror what Britain’s foreign spy chief described in November as a “staggeringly reckless campaign” by Russia across Europe, spanning from cyber attacks to suspected arson. Moscow has consistently denied involvement in these incidents.

The MIVD report also highlighted China’s role in supporting Russia and advancing its own intelligence-gathering goals in Europe. Beijing continues to seek access to Western technological knowledge through investments and espionage — especially in the Dutch semiconductor sector.

Last year, the agency said Chinese cyber espionage efforts were “more extensive than initially thought,” targeting both Western governments and defense contractors.

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