EU debates need for NATO-style response to Russia 'hybrid attacks'
Summary
EU defence ministers are weighing a NATO-style emergency mechanism to help member states coordinate responses to Russia’s hybrid attacks. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas are pushing for stronger security tools as incidents of sabotage and interference rise.
Key Points
- EU defence ministers discussed creating a NATO-style emergency protocol to respond to Russia’s hybrid attacks.
- Ursula von der Leyen proposed a new mechanism similar to NATO’s Article Four to trigger urgent EU talks during crises.
- EU officials say the bloc may expand expert support and funding while preparing a new security strategy next month.
- Ministers, including Ireland’s Helen McEntee and Finland’s Antti Hakkanen, backed stronger coordination against hybrid threats.
