A 36-page British report published on February 20, 2024, by the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) reveals that Russia is rebuilding capabilities aimed at destabilizing European states and expanding its influence into the Middle East and Africa, posing a strategic threat to NATO and its members. The report assesses Russia's use of unconventional warfare tactics, including political influence and covert operations, to weaken Western alliances, particularly in regions like the Balkans. Kosovo is specifically mentioned as a focus where Russian influence is exercised through various charitable associations and organizations such as the Ahmadi Kadyrov Foundation and the European Islamic Forum. These entities have links to Russia and act to support Kremlin's interests in the region. The report also notes the importance of the Balkans as a region where Russia seeks to expand its influence ahead of upcoming elections in Europe. Interviews with intelligence sources and officials from Ukraine and European countries contributed to the findings. The British report underscores the ongoing risk from Russia’s hybrid warfare approach targeting vulnerable regions like Kosovo to undermine European security.

A 36-page British report published on February 20, 2024, by the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) reveals that Russia is rebuilding capabilities aimed at destabilizing European states and expanding its influence into the Middle East and Africa, posing a strategic threat to NATO and its members. The report assesses Russia's use of unconventional warfare tactics, including political influence and covert operations, to weaken Western alliances, particularly in regions like the Balkans. Kosovo is specifically mentioned as a focus where Russian influence is exercised through various charitable associations and organizations such as the Ahmadi Kadyrov Foundation and the European Islamic Forum. These entities have links to Russia and act to support Kremlin's interests in the region. The report also notes the importance of the Balkans as a region where Russia seeks to expand its influence ahead of upcoming elections in Europe. Interviews with intelligence sources and officials from Ukraine and European countries contributed to the findings. The British report underscores the ongoing risk from Russia’s hybrid warfare approach targeting vulnerable regions like Kosovo to undermine European security.