According to GLOBSEC and ICTC, hybrid operations form a central pillar of Russian strategy, with growing evidence that Russia uses criminals in hybrid warfare against Europe. Since 2022, criminal activities including sabotage, attacks, and covert operations have been reported in France and Poland, among other countries, with linkages observed between Russian intelligence services and criminal groups, notably in Belarus. The reports highlight that criminal actors are integrated into Russia’s hybrid war campaigns, supporting destabilization efforts and complicating security responses. The escalation of such operations accelerated after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Researchers note over 100 suspected cases tied to Russia of this hybrid warfare approach in Europe. The use of criminals bypasses official sanction restrictions, enabling Moscow to maintain economic leverage and border control outside formal military action. The report emphasizes the need for stronger preventive measures against these hybrid tactics.

According to GLOBSEC and ICTC, hybrid operations form a central pillar of Russian strategy, with growing evidence that Russia uses criminals in hybrid warfare against Europe. Since 2022, criminal activities including sabotage, attacks, and covert operations have been reported in France and Poland, among other countries, with linkages observed between Russian intelligence services and criminal groups, notably in Belarus. The reports highlight that criminal actors are integrated into Russia’s hybrid war campaigns, supporting destabilization efforts and complicating security responses. The escalation of such operations accelerated after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Researchers note over 100 suspected cases tied to Russia of this hybrid warfare approach in Europe. The use of criminals bypasses official sanction restrictions, enabling Moscow to maintain economic leverage and border control outside formal military action. The report emphasizes the need for stronger preventive measures against these hybrid tactics.