Rising Security Threats Across Europe
Since launching its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia has intensified efforts to target its opponents on foreign soil. Moscow’s agencies are now acting with greater precision and political backing, employing tactics such as intimidation, surveillance, and assassination plots against activists, defectors, and pro-Ukraine individuals within European Union countries. This trend has sharply escalated after 2022, alarming European governments and intelligence services. As European intelligence officials noted,
“Russian operations have become more targeted and politically sanctioned”
Documented Incidents and Threats
In France, Russian activist Vladimir Osechkin has been under state protection since 2022. In April 2025, a group of men from Russia was observed surveilling his home in southwestern France, taking photos and videos of the property. Lithuania has uncovered multiple conspiracies involving potential attacks on Ukraine supporters and Russian opposition figures. German law enforcement has reported thwarting operations aimed at defense sector representatives and Ukrainian military officials.
Poland detained a suspect in 2024 linked to a plot targeting Ukraine’s president, highlighting the severity of the situation. In Spain, a Russian defector was killed last year, with suspects tied to Russian agencies believed to be involved. Since 2022, Russia has increasingly relied on intermediaries and recruited operatives to carry out these actions, underscoring a broader threat pattern. This is no longer a series of isolated incidents but a widening trend, as sources have indicated.
Swiss intelligence now considers Russia the top threat to security, stability, and peace in Europe. As Russian overseas activities grow, EU nations continue to implement measures to protect their citizens and prevent such dangers.
The situation surrounding Russian operations against opponents abroad points to rising security risks in Europe. European governments are compelled to respond by bolstering protection for their citizens and activists who may become targets of Russian agencies. It is crucial for the international community to remain aware of these threats and coordinate efforts to counter them.
As the situation escalates, it is crucial to understand the broader implications of these covert operations. Recent assessments, such as those from Swiss intelligence, have categorized Russia as a significant threat to the security landscape in Europe. For a deeper insight into how these dynamics are reshaping the continent's safety, explore more about how Russian actions are being perceived across Europe in our detailed report on Russia's emerging role as Europe’s primary security concern.