- cross-posted to:
- [email protected]
- cross-posted to:
- [email protected]
- Russia is intensifying covert attacks on key infrastructure in Germany as a possible prelude to a wider conflict, according to a military document.
- Germany expects to be targeted by Russia covertly via hybrid attacks on energy and defense infrastructure as it positions itself as NATO’s main hub in Europe.
- The defense ministry views Russia as “the greatest and most immediate threat to Germany’s security” and says hybrid measures are a tool used by Russia in its security policy and fight against the “collective West”.
…
“The hybrid measures and attacks that have been identified, particularly those carried out in Germany, should be seen as a tool deliberately used by Russia in its security policy and its fight against the ‘collective West.’ At the same time, these measures could also serve as preparation for military conflict,” the German defense ministry said.
…
The defense ministry plan … cited national and foreign intelligence that suggested Russia is seeking to develop capabilities and strategic options to wage and survive a large-scale war against NATO.
…
“However, Russia will do everything in its power to prevent or at least hinder the deployment of NATO forces on the eastern flank for the purposes of deterrence and, if necessary, defense,” it said.
…
The defense ministry concluded that Russia is deliberately targeting and exploring possible weak links in cooperation between different levels of German government with hybrid measures designed to unsettle citizens.
“The aim is to prevent the early detection of these hybrid measures and their actual extent and impact, and to slow down and paralyze our decision-making and response capabilities of the various responsible parties at federal, state and local level.”
…
Russia has already being waging hybrid warfare against the West through a massive campaign of disinformation, bots and propaganda. In addition we do it to ourselves as well. In America we have so much propaganda, it’s insane. We have Fox News, Newsmax, so many conspiracy theorist podcast hosts like Alex Jones (who has ties to Russia), Joe Rogan and way more. We also have billionaires funding our elections and supporting Republicans. Of course Germany is a lot better than we are but they have the AfD which receives backing from Elon Musk. 30 years ago I guarantee you almost no American could predict we would have fallen so far and have a president who’s loyal to Russia instead of our country. Likely if you were to tell an American 30+ years ago about this they would explain why they are “exceptional” or different from other countries. But you can see we were wrong. Never assume it can’t happen where you are too.
One key mistake which powered this all: how so many Americans fall for this is because we didn’t do nearly enough to stop it. Our education is underfunded and we don’t learn media literacy and civics. Now I ask will other countries repeat our mistake or will they take action?
I urge you demand your politicians really strengthen and enhance your education system by adding media literacy and emotional skills like conflict resolution, emotional regulation, attention span and impulse control, give the next generation the skills needed to be resilient against Russia’s hybrid warfare against Europe. Public media can also step in and educate adults and there can be workshops and classes. Students should be urged to pass the skills they learn along to their parents and grandparents.