French President Emmanuel Macron has warned that Russian hybrid attacks against Europe are intensifying, saying he has tasked his government with protecting critical infrastructure and defence industry sites.
Key facts
- Macron says Russian hybrid attacks against Europe are intensifying.
- He has tasked the government with protecting critical infrastructure.
- Defence industry sites are among the sites to be protected.
- The warning was reported by the BBC on 18 September 2026.
French President Emmanuel Macron has warned that Russian hybrid attacks against Europe are intensifying, according to the BBC.
Macron said he has tasked the government with protecting critical infrastructure and defence industry sites, the BBC reported.
The president’s comments point to a growing focus among European leaders on the security of essential facilities that could be targeted through hybrid means.
By naming both critical infrastructure and defence industry sites as priorities, Macron signalled that protective measures would extend across sectors seen as vulnerable.
The BBC report, published on 18 September 2026, did not detail the specific nature of the attacks Macron referred to or the exact steps the government would take.
Macron’s statement adds to broader European concern about hybrid threats, though further specifics were not provided in the reporting available.
Why it matters
Hybrid attacks can disrupt essential services and defence production without conventional military action, making them difficult to detect and counter. A public warning from a major European leader like Macron signals heightened concern and possible new security measures across the continent.
Frequently asked questions
What did Macron say about Russian hybrid attacks?
According to the BBC, Macron said Russian hybrid attacks against Europe are intensifying.
What action has Macron ordered?
The BBC reports that Macron has tasked the government with protecting critical infrastructure and defence industry sites.
When was this reported?
The BBC published the report on 18 September 2026.