On December 1, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zacharowa blasted NATO’s approach to hybrid attacks, calling it an “extremely irresponsible step” that could trigger further escalation.
Russia Responds to NATO
According to Reuters, on Tuesday, Dec 1, Maria Zacharowa responded to Italian Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone’s announcement that NATO would shift its approach to Russian hybrid attacks and mention “pre‑emptive strikes.”
Zacharowa, following Kremlin propaganda, deemed the move an “extremely irresponsible step” indicating the Alliance’s alleged readiness to continue escalating, and warned that those making such statements should be aware of the risks and potential consequences, including for Alliance members themselves.
Commentary on Ukraine Crisis
In her remarks, the spokeswoman also referenced Kiev, saying the statements were a deliberate attempt to undermine efforts to resolve the Ukrainian crisis, referring to Russia’s war in Ukraine. She noted that President Vladimir Putin rejected a cease‑fire proposal in May of the current year, despite Ukraine’s agreement.
At that time, the Center for Eastern Studies criticized Russia’s assurances of a desire for peace as “a game of optics.”
NATO’s Cyber and Military Strategy
Italian Admiral Cavo Dragone, in an interview with the Financial Times, said NATO has been reactive in cyberspace, but is considering a more aggressive or proactive stance. He added that retaliation for sabotage or drone attacks would be more complex.
According to him, a “pre‑emptive strike” could be a defensive measure but is farther from NATO’s past actions, and would involve legal and jurisdictional challenges.
General: Russia Uses Defensive Posture
The General stated that Russia is employing a defensive stance.
