On January 18, 2026, Swedish security services exposed a covert espionage operation involving agents disguised as nuns with direct links to Russia's GRU military intelligence unit. These 'spy nuns' infiltrated Sweden's religious circles, acting as pro-Putin activists and gathering intelligence amid heightened tensions due to the Russia-Ukraine war. The network also included Belarusian operatives. The operation illustrates Russia's use of unconventional covert tactics blending religious cover and ideological support for Putin to gain access and influence within Swedish society. Officials warn this tactic forms part of a broader Kremlin hybrid warfare strategy targeting Nordic and Baltic nations to destabilize and extract intelligence.

On January 18, 2026, Swedish security services exposed a covert espionage operation involving agents disguised as nuns with direct links to Russia's GRU military intelligence unit. These 'spy nuns' infiltrated Sweden's religious circles, acting as pro-Putin activists and gathering intelligence amid heightened tensions due to the Russia-Ukraine war. The network also included Belarusian operatives. The operation illustrates Russia's use of unconventional covert tactics blending religious cover and ideological support for Putin to gain access and influence within Swedish society. Officials warn this tactic forms part of a broader Kremlin hybrid warfare strategy targeting Nordic and Baltic nations to destabilize and extract intelligence.