Putin’s appetite for launching hybrid operations against Britain ‘is very clear’, say Western officials as desperate Putin escalates the conflict in Ukraine
Western officials have warned that Russia may intensify alleged “hybrid” activity against Britain, including sabotage and cyber operations, as the war in Ukraine continues. They said President Vladimir Putin appears determined to destabilise countries supporting Ukraine, while still seeking to avoid a direct confrontation with NATO; nevertheless, they cautioned that miscalculation remains a risk.
The officials pointed to the 2006 killing of Alexander Litvinenko in London and the 2018 Salisbury poisoning of Sergei Skripal as evidence of Russia’s alleged readiness to operate in Britain. They also cited potential threats to defence manufacturers supplying Ukraine, amid criticism of the Government’s defence-spending plans and Russian warnings over continued British support for Kyiv. Officials said Russia’s domestic pressures, including economic effects of Ukrainian strikes and concerns over mobilisation, could encourage further escalation.
- Officials warn Britain against complacency over alleged Russian sabotage and cyber threats.
- Russia is said to seek pressure on Ukraine’s international supporters.
- Direct NATO conflict is considered unlikely, but miscalculation remains a concern.