Russia stepping up hybrid attacks, preparing for long standoff with West, Dutch intelligence warns

(Alexander Martin – The Record) Russia’s intensifying cyberattacks, sabotage and covert influence operations across Europe show the Kremlin is preparing for a prolonged confrontation with the West, Dutch intelligence agencies said in a report published this week. In a joint assessment by the General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD) and the Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD), the Dutch agencies warned that while a direct military clash between Russia and NATO remains unlikely, it is no longer unthinkable. “Russia has not only proven capable of absorbing the substantial losses in Ukraine but has even expanded and reformed its armed forces. Furthermore, the Russian armed forces are preparing for the possibility of a conflict with NATO and are carrying out various activities to test the West’s willingness to escalate,” the report said. – Russia stepping up hybrid attacks, preparing for long standoff with West, Dutch intelligence warns | The Record from Recorded Future News