Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Union, has underscored the urgent need for a coordinated response to hybrid warfare threats, citing recent drone incidents as a clear indicator of the evolving security landscape. During a security summit in Brussels, von der Leyen warned that hybrid warfare, which combines conventional military tactics with cyber attacks, disinformation campaigns, and economic coercion, poses a significant risk to European stability.
She emphasized that the EU must strengthen its defense capabilities and enhance cyber resilience to counter these threats effectively. Von der Leyen also called for increased cooperation among member states to develop a unified strategy that integrates military, technological, and diplomatic measures. The President highlighted the importance of a strong deterrent posture, arguing that proactive measures are essential to prevent potential escalations and protect European interests.
Analysts have noted that hybrid warfare presents unique challenges due to its multifaceted nature, making it difficult to attribute attacks to specific actors. As the EU continues to navigate these complexities, von der Ley, has stressed the need for a comprehensive and adaptive approach to ensure the continent’s security in an increasingly unpredictable global environment.