US Intelligence Warns of Planned Russian Drone Attack on European Nations

United States intelligence has warned of a planned Russian drone attack targeting France, Italy, and Spain. According to El Mundo, the US disclosed the Kremlin's plans for a major escalation, which would involve Russia using drones launched from shipping containers in the Mediterranean. Lithuanian authorities indicated that the drones in question would be Gerbera drones, capable of a range of approximately 600 kilometers and easily launched. CIA Director John Ratcliffe's recent visit to Moscow was reportedly aimed at warning the Kremlin against this plan. Leaders of Spain, France, and Italy were subsequently informed about the potential drone attack, which could lead to a larger conflict. Chatham House Russia expert Keir Giles stated, 'If there continues to be no response to Russia pushing the boundaries with attacks and potential attacks on Europe, it makes the situation more and more dangerous.' He added that Russia is unlikely to attack Europe in a manner that would provoke a significant American response, as the Kremlin views its relationship with the United States as vital. The warning aligns with previous alerts from Russia regarding actions it might take if Western nations continue to support Ukraine. Giles noted that plans to launch weapons from Russian shadow fleet ships are not new and have been considered by the Kremlin. He emphasized that this situation is the result of years of Russia assessing its attacks on Europe and the responses from European nations. Multiple reports suggest that Russia lacks the manpower to initiate a full-scale conflict against a NATO nation until 2031 to 2033, but Giles cautioned that these timelines should not be relied upon. In July, it was reported that Russia had been conducting a campaign of war against the UK by deploying hundreds of drones and covert UAVs across Britain and Europe from their shadow fleet in preparation for future conflict. The International Institute of Strategic Studies released a report indicating that Putin's shadow fleet ships had sent drones to target airports, bases, and nuclear sites.