Russia may expand its hybrid warfare tactics beyond European infrastructure sabotage. According to Andriy Yermak, head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office, Moscow could resort to provocations near NATO borders. This warning comes amid concerns over Russia’s shadow fleet and unconventional threats involving North Korean or Iranian proxies.
A possible escalation in tensions was marked by an incident on December 25, where the Estlink 2 power cable connecting Finland and Estonia was damaged. Authorities suspected a Russian ship with ties to Moscow’s shadow fleet was responsible.
Yermak expressed concerns over Russia’s tactics, stating that impunity could embolden further provocations. He warned of North Korean or Iranian proxies appearing on NATO borders dressed in Russian uniforms, an idea he considered “quite realistic” given the involvement of North Korean forces in European conflicts.
This warning highlights the need for strong decisions and actions to counter Russian aggression. Finland previously investigated Russia’s role in damaging a gas pipeline, with President Putin dismissing the allegations as “complete rubbish.”
Source: https://kyivindependent.com/russia-may-escalate-hybrid-threats-to-nato-borders-yermak-warns