On 18 July, High Representative Kaja Kallas issued a statement condemning the ongoing malicious activities attributed to Russia. These actions are part of broader hybrid campaigns aimed at undermining the security and democratic foundations of the EU, its Member States, and their partners.
Kallas emphasised the systematic pattern of malicious behaviour from Russia, notably involving its military intelligence service, the GRU. The EU has seen an escalation of these hybrid activities since Russia’s aggressive actions against Ukraine began.
In the past year, the EU identified cyberattacks against democratic institutions in Germany and the Czech Republic as originating from the Russia-controlled group APT28. France also attributed cyberattacks in 2025 to the GRU, specifically targeting electoral processes and media. These incidents highlight a consistent disregard for international law and responsible behaviour in cyberspace.
Moreover, Russia’s destabilising campaigns include sabotage, disruption of critical infrastructure, and information manipulation. Romania recently reported a significant hybrid attack on its electoral process linked to Russia, while Germany identified information manipulation by the media platform “RED” as coordinated by Russia.
The EU expresses full solidarity with the UK, which has announced new measures against the GRU, and continues to denounce the threats Russia poses to the security of its partners. Moreover, the EU has implemented sanctions against three GRU units and several individuals associated with these activities. It also reaffirmed its commitment to support Ukraine and counter Russia’s hybrid actions targeting the EU and its Member States, while also assisting neighbouring countries, particularly Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova.
“In line with this firm and consistent stance, the EU will continue to act with determination through a strategic approach towards Russia’s hybrid threats,” emphasised Kallas.
“This ensures a proactive, coherent and sustained response, including through asymmetric and proportionate measures in line with international law. We will continue to strengthen our resilience, deepen cooperation with international partners, in particular with NATO in full respect of the agreed principles and make full use of all available means to prevent, deter, and respond effectively to Russia’s hybrid activities,” stated the High Representative.
