CIA Warns European Nations of Potential Sea-Launched Drone Attacks
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CIA Warns European Nations of Potential Sea-Launched Drone Attacks
- US intelligence has reportedly warned Spain, France, and Italy about potential Russian drone attacks launched from commercial vessels in the Mediterranean.
- This warning follows a visit by CIA Director John Ratcliffe to Moscow in August, during which intelligence was reportedly shared with several European governments.
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The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has reportedly issued a warning to Spain, France, and Italy regarding possible drone attacks by Russia. These attacks are believed to involve Russian-made “Gerbera” suicide drones, capable of carrying 4 to 5 kilograms of explosives and having a range of approximately 600 kilometers. The intelligence suggests that these drones could be launched from commercial vessels operating in international waters, effectively transforming civilian ships into mobile launch platforms. This method would allow Russia to maintain plausible deniability.
The warning comes after CIA Director John Ratcliffe’s visit to Moscow in August, where intelligence regarding these potential plans was shared with various European governments. Lithuanian authorities are reportedly aware of the specific drone model, the Gerbera. Potential targets are believed to be concentrated along coastlines, including ports, energy facilities, and coastal communication nodes. Spain, France, and Italy are significant for controlling Mediterranean shipping routes and acting as key hubs for European energy imports and maritime transport.
In response to these warnings, the affected countries have reportedly increased maritime surveillance in both the Mediterranean and Atlantic regions. While the CIA has not publicly confirmed the warning, the information is based on media reports citing intelligence sources. This development occurs amid heightened concerns in Europe regarding Russian drone activity, sabotage, and other forms of hybrid warfare. European governments have been enhancing security around critical infrastructure and military facilities.