European officials warn of rising Russian hybrid threats and election interference

European security officials and defense experts are warning of escalating Russian hybrid warfare tactics across the continent. Following incidents involving armed drones near Leipzig airport in Germany, analysts cautioned that covert operations are increasingly targeting transport infrastructure. In response, Sweden's military leadership called on personnel and citizens to be mentally prepared for potential Russian attacks aimed at testing NATO unity. Meanwhile, Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur warned that upcoming regional elections face heightened risks of foreign interference, noting "Russia is looking for opportunities to influence our societies."

Concurrently, Ukrainian forces launched long-range strikes against oil refineries in Russia's Bashkiria and Yaroslavl regions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported successful strikes, while Russian authorities minimized the damage.

Sources: Dagens Industri, Dagens Nyheter, Svenska Dagbladet, SVT, Sydsvenskan