German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned that Germany and its allies should expect more hybrid attacks linked to Russia as the war in Ukraine continues.
Speaking at an event where NATO received the Westphalian Peace Prize, Merz pointed to cyber operations, drone activity and disinformation as forms of pressure that can affect European societies even outside the conventional battlefield.
Support for Ukraine remains central
Merz reiterated Germany’s commitment to backing Ukraine and said the coming winter could be particularly difficult. He argued that European governments should strengthen their resilience against attempts to create political division.
The chancellor also said Germany ultimately wants stable relations with Russia, but tied that prospect to an end to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
Hybrid threats remain contested terrain
European governments have increasingly attributed cyberattacks, sabotage attempts and influence operations to Russian-linked actors. Moscow has denied many such accusations and has accused Western governments of using the claims to justify confrontation.
Merz’s remarks reflect the German government’s current security posture rather than an independent determination about responsibility for every reported incident.
Sources: Reuters; German federal government statements; NATO background materials.
