Russia's Aggressive Tactics Escalate: 110 Attacks on European Soil Since 2022
A report by the International Centre for Counter-Terrorism (ICCT) and GLOBSEC reveals a sharp escalation in Russian-linked attacks on European soil. Since 2022, 110 incidents have been identified, with a quarter involving arson and explosives. Notably, nearly half of these attacks occurred in the first half of 2024, indicating a significant increase in Russia's aggressive tactics.
The report, titled 'Russia's Crime-Terror Nexus', highlights Russia's use of organized crime groups and affiliated militant organizations to carry out these attacks. Rather than relying solely on spies, Moscow is outsourcing sabotage, arson, and even targeted killings to gangs and convicts. This strategy aims to destabilize Europe and further Russia's geopolitical goals.
Poland has been particularly affected, with 20 incidents since 2023, including nearly a third of all arson attacks. The study underscores the central role of crime in Russia's foreign policy, with potential plans to expand these operations in the future. In one notable case, a Russian scheme to assassinate Armin Papperger, the CEO of Rheinmetall, was thwarted by US and German intelligence agencies.
The ICCT and GLOBSEC report underscores the growing threat of Russia's weaponization of criminals on European soil. With 110 attacks since 2022, including a sharp increase in the first half of 2024, European nations must remain vigilant and coordinate their efforts to counter this evolving security challenge.
