Czech intelligence warns of increased Russian and Chinese espionage in Europe

The Czech Security Information Service (BIS) has issued a warning regarding the intensification of espionage and hybrid warfare operations conducted by Russia and China within Europe. According to the BIS annual report, Russia is shifting its focus from disinformation toward physical sabotage, reportedly recruiting inexperienced individuals through social media networks to carry out such missions.

Simultaneously, China is expanding its espionage activities across diplomatic, scientific, and cyber domains. The BIS notes that Europe is facing one of its most complex security environments since the end of the Cold War, driven by the invasion of Ukraine, conflicts in the Middle East, and tensions surrounding Taiwan.

In a related assessment of regional stability, Kaupo Rosin, Director General of the Estonian Foreign Intelligence Service (EFIS), stated that Russia is facing increasing pressure on both the front lines and within its economy. Rosin suggested that President Vladimir Putin currently faces “only bad options” as Russian military human losses outpace current recruitment rates.