Europe braces for ‘severe hybrid attacks’ from Russia, says Friedrich Merz

The same day Bloomberg noted Merz’s claim that Russia is actively supporting Germany’s far‑right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party, while Politico highlighted his effort to project strength amid a rising far‑right presence in Germany. Coverage across five outlets emphasized different angles of the story. Politico framed Merz’s remarks within the domestic context of a strengthening far‑right, suggesting a strategic need for him to appear resolute against Putin. Defense Express reported that Ukraine received its 11th Iris‑T surface‑to‑air missile system, marking the third battery delivered this year, as part of a broader order for thousands of missiles.

Reuters focused on Merz’s warning of additional Russian hybrid activity and his reaffirmation of support for Ukraine. Bloomberg concentrated on the alleged Russian backing of the AfD, and the Financial Times carried the headline that Europe must brace for severe hybrid attacks, echoing Merz’s warning. The statements arrive against a backdrop of heightened concern over hybrid warfare, a blend of cyber, informational, and conventional tactics that Russia has employed across Europe. Germany’s internal political landscape is shifting, with the AfD gaining visibility, prompting leaders like Merz to address both external threats and domestic political pressures.

Ukraine’s procurement of the Iris‑T system reflects ongoing efforts to bolster air defence amid the broader missile orders, underscoring the tangible military dimension of the security discourse. Future monitoring will likely focus on additional comments from EU and NATO officials regarding hybrid threat mitigation, any policy shifts within Germany’s coalition concerning the AfD, and further updates on Ukraine’s missile acquisitions. Coverage may also track Russian activity that could be classified as hybrid attacks, as well as any diplomatic responses from Moscow to the allegations of supporting Germany’s far‑right.