CIA Warns of Russian Drone Attack Plans on Italy, France, and Spain
The CIA has uncovered Russian plans to launch drone attacks against Italy, France, and Spain, and has informed the respective governments, according to Spanish newspaper El Mundo. The alleged goal is to destabilize these nations ahead of their 2027 elections. The report cites a Lithuanian Defense Ministry source saying Russia could deploy Gerbera drones launched from merchant ships at sea, hidden in containers. These drones, weighing up to 18 kilograms with a 600-kilometer range, could cause fires or temporarily close ports and airports, though their small explosive payload limits damage. Lithuania reportedly learned of the intelligence shortly after CIA Director John Ratcliffe's August 25 visit to Moscow. El Mundo notes that France and Italy host radical political forces with positions aligned with Kremlin interests, which could exploit public fear and disillusionment regarding Ukraine.