Denmark's intelligence service has warned that Russia is expected to escalate hybrid warfare against Nato allies in the coming months, with Danish authorities placed on high alert for similar incidents on their own territory.
Thomas Ahrenkiel, the head of Denmark's military intelligence service, said in an interview that «Russia is stepping up its hybrid attacks» across Europe and that the country should prepare for a more aggressive campaign. He warned that the consequences for targeted countries could be more severe than in the past.
According to the assessment, Russia is focusing its attention in particular on the defence industry and the part of the industry that supports Ukraine. The campaign also aims more broadly at stopping any aid from reaching Ukraine, the intelligence chief said.
The warning comes as European states remain on edge over a series of incidents that have been attributed to Russian operatives or proxies, including sabotage, cyber-attacks and disinformation campaigns. Denmark, like other Nato members, has been a supporter of Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion and has contributed military and humanitarian assistance.
Ahrenkiel's comments echo concerns raised by other European security officials who have said Moscow is testing the alliance's resolve through actions that fall below the threshold of armed conflict. The tactics are designed to sow division, disrupt supply chains and weaken public support for Ukraine without triggering a direct military response.
The intelligence chief did not specify which countries or sectors could be targeted next, but he said Denmark should be on high alert for similar incidents. The warning suggests that the threat is not limited to frontline states and that all Nato members could be vulnerable.
Hybrid warfare typically combines cyber-attacks, sabotage, disinformation and economic pressure. In recent months, European countries have reported disruptions at military facilities, undersea infrastructure and transport networks, as well as attempts to influence elections and public opinion.
The Danish assessment adds to a growing body of warnings from Western intelligence agencies that Russia is preparing for a long confrontation with the West. Nato has responded by strengthening its defences, increasing intelligence sharing and boosting cooperation with partners such as the European Union.
For Denmark, the alert means that authorities are likely to review security at critical infrastructure, defence contractors and facilities involved in the production or transport of aid to Ukraine. The government has not announced new public measures, but the intelligence service's warning is a signal that vigilance is required.
The report also underscores the broader challenge facing Nato as it seeks to deter Russia while avoiding an escalation that could draw the alliance directly into the war. Allies have accused Moscow of conducting a campaign of sabotage and subversion across Europe, which Russia has denied.
As the war in Ukraine continues, European officials expect that Russia will try to disrupt Western unity and undermine support for Kyiv. The Danish warning is the latest indication that the hybrid threat is seen as intensifying rather than fading.
Denmark's intelligence service has previously warned about Russian espionage and influence operations. The latest statement suggests that the threat level remains high and that further incidents are possible in the months ahead.
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