# Russian intelligence operations in Europe > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/russian-intelligence-operations-in-europe > Updated: 2026-09-17T19:38:20.000Z. Sources: 31. Developments: 2. Recent investigations have uncovered Russian intelligence operations targeting European infrastructure and diplomatic missions. In Romania, authorities detained a 40-year-old Russian citizen, Ivan Kuțenko, for allegedly conducting acts of diversion and sabotage. Between February and July 2026, the suspect reportedly monitored and photographed NATO military bases, communication centers, and critical infrastructure, including the movement of Ukrainian cargo aircraft. Romanian intelligence services suggest these activities were coordinated from Russia via encrypted messaging as part of a pattern of hybrid warfare. Concurrently, an investigation in Italy revealed a Russian spy network operating within Italian embassies, including an official accredited to the Vatican. The network allegedly involved individuals linked to the GRU and FSB who focused on collecting information regarding Italian state structures and NATO military and technological systems. The operation reportedly included tasks such as recruiting migrants for potential sabotage. Several suspected spies were expelled from Italy in early July. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-17: Russian spy network uncovered in Italian and Vatican embassies An investigation reveals a Russian spy network operating in Italian embassies, including the Vatican, targeting NATO military technology and seeking to recruit migrants for sabotage. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/russian-spy-network-uncovered-in-italian-and-vatican-embassies ### 2026-09-07: Russian citizen arrested in Romania for spying on NATO and military targets A 40-year-old Russian citizen has been arrested in Romania for allegedly spying on NATO and Romanian military bases and monitoring Ukrainian cargo aircraft to prepare for acts of sabotage. 28 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cluj-napoca-man-placed-under-house-arrest-after-whip-assault --- Cite as: Russian intelligence operations in Europe. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/russian-intelligence-operations-in-europe