The US-Iran conflict has entered a complex phase focusing on hybrid warfare and internal destabilization rather than direct military defeat, according to Russian expert Oleg Akulinichev.
Greece faces new challenges balancing support for Ukraine with protecting its economy, encountering EU sanctions hurdles over Russian LNG shipping and security concerns after a Ukrainian drone incident. The country is providing aid and reconstruction support but remains cautious due to potential Russian hybrid warfare.
2026 has seen a surge in sophisticated cyberattacks, impacting critical infrastructure, government agencies, and private companies. From massive data breaches like DOGE's alleged Social Security database leak to targeted attacks on water systems and energy grids, the year highlights the growing threat of digital warfare and ransomware.
Taiwan's National Security Institute deputy secretary-general Ho Cheng-hui stated China is increasingly using "hybrid warfare" and grey-zone tactics, like coast guard deployments and legal claims, to pressure Taiwan instead of direct military confrontation. He urged Taiwan to adopt "absolute transparency" similar to the Philippines to counter Beijing's narrative.
Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR) revealed Russia is expanding "Russian Houses" in 8 African nations, alongside arms supplies, as part of a hybrid warfare strategy targeting youth. These centers, run by Rossotrudnichestvo and linked to Wagner/Africa Corps, promote Russian culture and language but also recruit for military service, with some Africans ending up on front lines in Ukraine.
Germany's Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt opened a new hybrid warfare center in Berlin, citing a "Russian threat" and "foreign powers" engaging in espionage, sabotage, and disinformation. The center aims for "active cyber defense." Meanwhile, the Federal Prosecutor General criticized its creation due to overlapping functions with existing centers.
Estonia stores critical citizen data in a secure 'digital embassy' in Luxembourg, protected from cyberattacks and physical threats. Other countries, including Monaco and potentially Ukraine, are following suit amid rising security concerns post-Russia's Ukraine invasion.
Lithuania is on high alert for cyber attacks following a massive data leak of over 600,000 entries from national registers, suspected to be the work of a foreign country, possibly Russia. Cybersecurity measures have been implemented, and officials warn of potential espionage against intelligence officers, military, and diplomats.
Russia's Security Council Deputy Secretary Alexander Venediktov stated that the International Criminal Court (ICC) has become a legal tool of hybrid warfare, and its officials should be prosecuted under national criminal law. This will be discussed at a security forum in Russia.
Iranian intelligence is allegedly using criminal intermediaries to recruit teenagers for low-level hybrid warfare attacks across Europe and the UK, targeting Jewish community sites and US interests to sow discord and anxiety.
