Intelligence agencies have warned that Russia may be preparing seaborne drone attacks targeting major infrastructure in southern Europe, including holiday destinations in Italy, Spain, and France. According to reports, the Russian military could deploy drones from container ships to strike key facilities such as ports and airports, potentially disrupting travel and trade in the region.

The CIA has reportedly alerted authorities in Paris, Madrid, and Rome about the threat, highlighting concerns that Moscow may be expanding its campaign beyond Eastern Europe. The drones in question are believed to be capable of reaching much of the eastern half of Spain—including Madrid and the region of Andalucia—as well as large portions of Italy and southern France.

NATO officials described the move as part of an intensified "hybrid" warfare strategy, which combines various military and non-military tactics. “We believe Russia is feeling a degree of pressure right now that is remarkably high, probably the highest at any point during the war,” a NATO representative said. “From the Kremlin’s perspective, the best option is to step up the hybrid campaign they have been waging against the West. That includes more aggressive messaging and the harder aspects of a hybrid campaign.”

Lithuanian officials have identified the drone model possibly involved as the Gerbera, a small kamikaze-type unmanned aerial vehicle with an estimated range of 373 miles. The drone can carry a warhead weighing up to 5 kilograms and is launched via catapult. Experts suggest that such drones have the potential to cause significant, albeit temporary, damage to ports and airports, potentially disrupting critical infrastructure and supply routes.

This development comes amid ongoing tensions over Russia’s military activities in Eastern Europe, where Moscow has faced significant setbacks. Analysts believe that the reported drone plan could represent an escalation in Russia’s efforts to apply pressure on NATO members through asymmetric means.

While details remain limited and official responses from the targeted countries have been cautious, the intelligence warnings underline growing concerns about the potential for Russia to extend its operational reach into southern Europe and impact civil infrastructure. Authorities in the affected countries are likely to increase vigilance as they assess and prepare for the evolving security environment.