The CIA has alerted several European governments to a possible Russian operation involving drones launched from the Mediterranean Sea, targeting countries in southern Europe. According to reports, Spain, France, and Italy are potential targets, while Portugal is not mentioned as a possible target. The alert was first reported by the Spanish newspaper El Mundo, citing sources linked to defense and intelligence services.
The scenario described involves using drones transported on merchant ships and launched from the sea, allowing them to approach the European coast without crossing the airspace of other countries. The Gerbera drone, a Russian model used in the Ukraine war, is mentioned as a possible device that could be used. It can perform various functions, including decoy, reconnaissance, or attack, and some versions can reach speeds of around 160 km/h and cover hundreds of kilometers.
The use of Russia's so-called "ghost fleet" has raised concerns. These ships are primarily used to circumvent sanctions on Russian exports, but recent investigations have identified risks related to surveillance, sabotage of infrastructure, and drone operations. The Gerbera drone's limited explosive payload suggests it was not designed to destroy large installations, but it could still cause fires, damage equipment, or force the temporary closure of infrastructure like airports and ports.
A potential attack could have significant economic and psychological impacts, even if the physical damage is limited. An incident on the territory of a NATO country could test the reaction capacity of authorities and increase pressure on European governments that support Ukraine. However, there is an important distinction to be made: while there are suspicions about the use of Russian commercial ships in hybrid operations, the only publicly confirmed launch of a drone from a ship in 2026 occurred in the Baltic Sea and involved a Russian military information ship, not a "ghost fleet" vessel.
The alert comes at a time of heightened tension in European airspace. On Thursday, two Spanish F-18 fighter jets scrambled to intercept "air targets" after detecting Russian drones near the Ukrainian border. The visit of CIA Director John Ratcliffe to Moscow in August has also gained new relevance, with European media linking it to the warnings transmitted to allies afterward.
While the risk described by intelligence services does not necessarily mean an attack is imminent, it reveals growing concern among allies about difficult-to-attribute operations that allow Moscow to increase pressure on Europe without directly advancing to open military confrontation with NATO. European countries are reinforcing their vigilance in response to the new incidents.
The situation highlights the complex security landscape in Europe, with multiple factors contributing to the tensions. As the international community continues to monitor the situation, it remains to be seen how European governments will respond to the potential threat and what measures they will take to enhance their security and preparedness.
Key points
- The CIA has alerted European governments to a possible Russian operation involving drones launched from the Mediterranean Sea.
- The potential targets of the alleged Russian drone attacks are Spain, France, and Italy.
- The use of Russia's "ghost fleet" has raised concerns about surveillance, sabotage, and drone operations.
