What the hack? Europeans face growing psyops and cyberattacks

The article previews a debate about Europe’s exposure to cyberattacks, psychological operations and bomb threats, alongside wider security tensions linked to Russia’s war in Ukraine. It asks whether France and the UK could help keep the peace under a future deal, and whether public preparedness campaigns are prudent or fuel unnecessary fear.

European representatives are seeking a role in US-brokered Russia-Ukraine discussions in Abu Dhabi, while the “coalition of the willing” conducts military drills in Poland. The UK defence secretary has launched a “Be Prepared” campaign urging people to keep food, water, medical supplies and cash for emergencies; some French presidential candidates have criticised such messaging as fearmongering.