CIA warns Spain, France, and Italy of possible Russian sea-launched drone attack

The CIA has warned Spain, France, and Italy that Russia may be preparing a drone attack launched from the sea, according to Spanish newspaper El Mundo and diplomatic sources. The warning was issued to multiple European governments. Russia is reportedly hiding Gerbera-type drones in containers on merchant ships, with a range of 600 kilometers and a payload of four to five kilograms of explosives. The drones could cause fires or temporarily paralyze ports or airports, though not destroy major installations. The attack's goal would be political and economic, targeting countries seen as weak links ahead of 2027 elections. Lithuania and others have known since CIA Director John Ratcliffe visited Moscow on August 25, and French President Emmanuel Macron convened a defense council on hybrid attacks on September 16.