Russian hybrid warfare in Eastern Europe

Reports from the United States Congress have detailed extensive Russian hybrid warfare campaigns targeting European nations and NATO allies, with a specific focus on the eastern flank.

Initial findings identified Romania as a primary target, noting an increase in the frequency and severity of operations since 2022. These threats include GPS jamming in the Black Sea, drone incursions, cyberattacks, disinformation, and sabotage attempts against critical infrastructure. Romanian officials have openly attributed such interference to Russia.

Subsequent reporting expanded the scope to include Bulgaria, identifying at least four Russian attacks against the country between 2018 and 2025. The documentation highlights that attacks against EU member states quadrupled during the 2023–2024 period. In Bulgaria, specific incidents of suspected sabotage include ammunition depot fires and an explosion at a factory. While Bulgarian military officials acknowledge GPS jamming, they have not named a specific perpetrator, unlike Romanian authorities. The reports characterize Bulgaria as highly vulnerable to anti-democratic influences, including political bribery and interference in electoral systems.