U.S. intelligence officials have issued an urgent warning to American defense companies about potential Russian sabotage threats, following a series of suspicious incidents across Europe.
The National Counterintelligence and Security Center released a public bulletin Thursday cautioning defense contractors supporting Ukraine, particularly those supporting Ukraine's war effort, to strengthen their security measures as Russia escalates aggressive actions against Ukraine's allies.
Intelligence reports indicate Russia has orchestrated multiple sabotage operations targeting European defense facilities, logistics centers, utilities, and military installations. According to officials, Russian intelligence agencies have recruited local criminal networks to execute these attacks, including arson incidents in the UK and Poland.
Recent security investigations linked Russia to a plot involving incendiary devices on cargo planes bound for North America. Two related incidents occurred when devices ignited at a German courier facility and an English warehouse.
The warning highlights how these sabotage operations aim to spread fear, damage infrastructure, disrupt business operations, and potentially cause casualties. Officials view these actions as part of Russia's broader strategy to weaken support for Ukraine through hybrid warfare tactics, including disinformation campaigns.
"Russia's sabotage activities in Europe increase the risk to U.S. companies abroad and potentially at home," the bulletin stated.
The advisory was jointly issued by the FBI and Department of Defense agencies under the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Russian officials have denied involvement in these incidents, with requests for comment from Russia's Washington embassy remaining unanswered.
This unprecedented warning underscores growing concerns about the expansion of Russia's covert operations beyond Europe's borders and their potential impact on U.S. defense infrastructure.