Russia summons Belgian ambassador over hybrid warfare accusations

Russia has summoned the Belgian ambassador, Michel Gerebtzoff, to protest accusations regarding hybrid warfare, sabotage, and military threats directed at Belgium and Europe.

The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement categorically rejecting what it termed “unfounded accusations” from Belgian political and military leadership. Moscow warned that “aggressive” rhetoric from Belgian officials, which portrays Russia as an enemy, contributes to escalation and risks an uncontrolled confrontation. Russia urged Brussels to reduce its anti-Russian rhetoric to ease continental tensions.

These diplomatic tensions follow statements from Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken, who noted that security services have investigated dozens of suspicious incidents. Francken cited evidence of drones over sensitive locations and numerous cyberattacks against Belgian facilities, suggesting strong indications of Russian involvement. He urged European partners to increase security budgets and prepare for a period of heightened hybrid threats.