Former Lithuanian Prime Minister Andrius Kubilius has called for a significantly stronger European response to Russia’s ongoing hybrid attacks, insisting that any retaliation must inflict comparable pain on Moscow.
In an interview, Kubilius emphasized that the current approach by the European Union and its member states is insufficient to deter further aggression. He argued that disorganized or half-measured responses only encourage further destabilization efforts by the Kremlin.
Hybrid warfare encompasses a range of non-conventional tactics, including cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, energy coercion, and sabotage. Kubilius warned that without a cohesive and robust counter-strategy, European nations remain vulnerable to these multifaceted threats.
The former head of government urged EU leaders to develop a unified framework for identifying and responding to hybrid incidents swiftly. He suggested that punitive measures should be automatic and proportionate, ensuring that Russia faces tangible consequences for its actions.
Kubilius’ comments come amid rising tensions as Moscow continues to employ asymmetric tactics against Western allies. His call to action highlights growing concerns within the continent about the adequacy of existing defenses against modern, non-military forms of conflict.
Tangible consequences sound good in theory, yet Europe seems stuck on economic sanctions that hurt its own citizens.
Cyberattacks are real, but labeling everything ‘hybrid warfare’ dilutes the term’s meaning.
But can the EU actually agree on anything fast enough? Collective action is notoriously slow.
Finally, someone says it. Half-measures only invite more aggression from Moscow.