Russia implements Soviet sabotage plans in Europe amidst ongoing conflict

Intelligence experts say Europe faces a growing threat from Russian sabotage operations. These operations aim to achieve military results in Ukraine, cause political and economic costs to Europe, and create nuisance. The author of a report told Al Jazeera that Russia has various aims, including causing trouble to see the consequences. The airline stopped flights for a month to find a new landing system. The interference observed in aviation is likely a side effect of Russia's self-protection. This interference may have started without the intention to disrupt air traffic across Europe. However, once the disruptive effects became significant, Russia continued. The people arrested are not part of the Russian General Staff Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU), which usually plans sabotage operations. NATO reported that GRU launched cyberattacks against critical infrastructure in several European countries. These countries are vocal critics of Russia and strong allies of Ukraine in Europe. The Russian sabotage campaign seems focused on disrupting the military supply chain from the West to Ukraine. This has led to concerns about security implications in the North Sea. Nordic and Baltic countries are preparing for potential attacks, while legal constraints limit Germany's military spending. Russia's actions have put Europe on edge, as Western countries have not set clear boundaries. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz stated that Ukraine has the right to defend itself against Russian military targets. Vladimir Putin warned of 'grave consequences' if Western countries support Ukraine's use of weapons against Russia. Putin criticized small European countries for their actions and stated that Russia is ready for talks with Ukraine. Ukraine's allies have not sent troops to intervene in the conflict, but some have supported Ukraine's right to defend itself. Russia accused Western leaders of escalating tensions and interfering in regional conflicts. Putin has warned of nuclear weapons use if Russia feels threatened. Since the invasion of Ukraine, Putin has emphasized Russia's nuclear power status.