European Union considers new security strategy against hybrid threats

European Union member states are discussing new collective methods to counter Russian hybrid warfare, including sabotage, arson, and destabilization efforts that fall below the threshold of armed conflict. EU Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius stated, “If we are facing hybrid warfare, we must have hybrid defense,” emphasizing the need to define available tools for response.

EU defense ministers are meeting in Brussels to discuss a European Commission proposal for a new Emergency Security Protocol. This mechanism aims to coordinate effective responses when member states are targeted by hybrid threats, potentially functioning similarly to NATO’s Article 4. While some diplomats express concern regarding overlapping decision-making processes with NATO, many nations advocate for a re-evaluation of current approaches.

The European Commission is expected to submit a proposal for a “common security strategy” by the end of the year. This strategy will cover a broad spectrum of issues, ranging from urgent security threats to maritime transport security and the consequences of climate change. For countries like Greece, the integration of maritime law into European protocols is of significant national interest.