CIA warns Russia plans drone attacks on Italy, France, and Spain from the sea

The CIA has warned European governments that Russia is preparing drone attacks targeting Mediterranean countries, including Italy, France, and Spain, according to Spanish newspaper El Mundo. The intelligence was shared with several European governments. The drones, called Gerbera, would be launched from merchant ships carrying them in containers, from 200-300 kilometers off the coast. They carry a small explosive payload of 4-5 kilograms, capable of starting fires or temporarily closing ports and airports. A map shows nearly all of Italy would be within range. Lithuanian authorities reportedly knew of the plans shortly after CIA Director John Ratcliffe's visit to Moscow on August 25. The report notes Spain, France, and Italy will hold elections in 2027 and host radical forces that could exploit public fear and disillusionment with Ukraine.