The German Defense Minister warned about the threat posed by Russia's hybrid attacks.

As Pistorius pointed out, Russian President Vladimir Putin has a strong understanding of Germany and knows precisely where to strike, with the country falling within his area of interest. He cited examples of potential attacks, highlighting the energy supply sector and particularly vulnerable infrastructure in the waters of the North and Baltic Seas.

German wind energy companies are increasingly aware of the growing threat posed by hybrid warfare, calling for protection of their offshore installations. Recently, industry representatives suggested more intensive patrolling of the waters to prevent sabotage and espionage. Stefan Timm, managing director of the German Offshore Wind Energy Association, endorsed Poland’s proposal for a special mission in the Baltic Sea. He stated to the dpa agency that such patrolling should be carried out by governmental authorities, as private companies cannot manage this on their own.

In an interview, Boris Pistorius also pointed out forms of hybrid warfare such as airspace violations, referring to the potential for unauthorized drone incursions. The minister also mentioned information campaigns on social media and the influence on electoral processes that Russia might use to sway public opinion. Furthermore, he identified the financing of populist parties like "Alternative for Germany" and "The Alliance of Sahra Wagenknecht" as methods of hybrid warfare.

Russia has repeatedly denied accusations from Western countries regarding attempts to influence the course and outcomes of various electoral campaigns.

Pistorius emphasized the necessity of arming oneself to counter potential attacks. "We must be prepared to confidently confront the Putin threat. If we ignore the threat simply because it is inconvenient for us, it will not diminish; it will only grow," he concluded.

• In recent months, authorities in Western countries have repeatedly assessed that a number of crimes in Europe, including arson at factories and critical infrastructure sites, as well as physical assaults, are linked to agents financed by Russia. Moscow, which continues its full-scale military invasion of Ukraine, denies these allegations.