Following russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, US and European officials have accused russia of a sustained campaign of malign activities, often referred to as hybrid warfare, across Europe. These attacks, which have been increasing in number and severity, include sabotage, assassinations, political interference and influence, cyberattacks, and airspace violations, among others, according to the Congressional Research Service report.
russia’s foreign intelligence agencies have demonstrated flexibility in conducting these attacks and adapting to European responses (such as sanctions, expulsions of intelligence officers, increased military operations and heightened intelligence scrutiny), and they are conducting more aggressive operations, which carry a greater risk of exposure. Some European officials have asserted that russia is using hybrid warfare tactics to undermine European support for Ukraine and destabilize or complicate a unified European response to russian policies and actions.
Continued russian hybrid warfare activities are raising questions in both the United States and Europe about the long-term threat russia poses to US and European strategic and national security interests. Congress has introduced legislation and held multiple hearings on russian hybrid warfare activities in Europe and other related issues. Congress may examine whether and how russian hybrid warfare activities are affecting European threat perceptions and national security interests, US military or intelligence commitments, and the overall security environment in Europe.
Congress may deliberate what support, if any, to provide Europe for its responses and assess current or proposed US and European responses to russian hybrid warfare activities, including determining whether military, law enforcement, or intelligence-led strategies—or a mix of approaches—are most effective at countering russia’s hybrid warfare activities.
