Putin Will Be Forced To Pay

• 10.10.2026, 16:42

The response to hybrid warfare must go beyond mere defense.

European countries are looking for ways to make Russia pay for acts of sabotage, cyberattacks, and other operations that Moscow is using to undermine support for Ukraine.

So far, European leaders have largely limited themselves to statements, but without a tougher response, the Kremlin will act even more aggressively, writes The New York Times (translation by Charter97.org).

In recent months, a series of suspicious incidents has occurred in Europe. Germany accused Moscow of launching a drone carrying explosives near the Leipzig airport. Earlier reports mentioned sabotage on Poland’s railways, flights by Russian reconnaissance drones, and attempts to attack facilities involved in the production of weapons for Ukraine.

According to Western experts, the Kremlin’s goal is to sow fear, divide NATO, and convince Europeans that supporting Kyiv is too costly.

“What was shocking yesterday becomes the norm tomorrow,” warned former NATO Deputy Secretary General Kamil Gran.

Europe is already stepping up security at airports, railways, and other critical infrastructure. However, defense alone is not enough. Experts suggest identifying Russian intelligence operatives, dismantling networks of local saboteurs, and cutting off their funding.

“The response must go beyond defense,” said Lithuanian expert Linas Kojala.

More stringent measures are also being discussed, including cyber operations against Russian infrastructure and strengthening air defense on NATO’s eastern flank. Poland, in particular, has proposed shooting down missiles and drones over Ukraine that are heading toward Alliance territory.

“Europe needs a list of concrete measures, not just another meeting,” said former U.S. Ambassador to NATO Ivo Daalder.