Dutch Intelligence Warns of Rising Russian Sabotage Threat
The threat of sabotage in the Netherlands by Russia and pro-Russian actors is growing, according to a new joint intelligence report released by Dutch security agencies, The Gaze reports, citing NOS.
While the possibility of a direct Russian military attack on NATO territory remains unlikely, concerns are mounting over low-level sabotage efforts, including cyberattacks aimed at disrupting society.
The warning comes from the State Actor Threat Assessment 2025, published by the General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD), the Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD), and the National Coordinator for Counterterrorism and Security (NCTV).
“The Netherlands is increasingly seen as a potential target for espionage and sabotage,” said AIVD Director-General Erik Akerboom. The report highlights the vulnerability of vital infrastructure, such as undersea internet cables in the North Sea and key energy and communication networks.
Disruptions caused by digital sabotage could temporarily disable electricity, internet access, payment systems, or access to clean drinking water.
Dutch intelligence agencies say they have identified concrete signs of Russian-linked sabotage activities, including efforts by pro-Russian individuals to slow down or hinder Dutch support for Ukraine.
The report notes that while geopolitical tensions are rising and the global balance of power is shifting, European countries must prepare to shoulder more responsibility for their own defense, with declining U.S. military involvement expected in the coming years.
China and Iran are also flagged in the assessment for continued espionage activities aimed at acquiring Dutch technological and scientific knowledge.
NCTV chief Pieter-Jaap Aalbersberg emphasized the need for resilience: “The threat landscape shows that we cannot afford to sit still. It’s not a question of if our society will face disruptive effects, but when.”
The Dutch government is expected to strengthen counterintelligence and cybersecurity measures in response to the findings.
Read more on The Gaze: Swiss Intelligence: Russia and China Pose Top Espionage Threats