Romania and EU/NATO condemn Russian-linked cyberattacks, announce sanctions

Romania and several EU and NATO members were recently targeted by cyber‑attacks attributed to Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) Center 16 and the APT Turla group. President Nicușor Dan condemned the operations, saying they aim to undermine democratic stability, sow division and test the cohesion of the EU and NATO. The European Council announced sanctions on nine individuals and four entities linked to the campaign, while the United Kingdom added 24 names to its blacklist. Romania has also put forward an EU‑level proposal to sanction the hacking platform Noname, alleged to have carried out attacks on Romanian sites. NATO’s North Atlantic Council echoed the condemnation, warning that the malicious activities threaten allied security and affirming readiness to respond under international law. The incidents affected public institutions, critical infrastructure such as energy and transport networks, and sensitive data across Romania, Poland, France, Germany and other member states. Romanian authorities pledged continued cooperation with the EU, NATO and allied partners to strengthen cyber defence and deter further hostile actions.