Europe braces for war with Russia as hybrid attacks escalate

European officials warn that Russia's escalating hybrid attacks—including sabotage, drone strikes, and cyberattacks—signal a dangerous prelude to potential broader conflict, urging Western nations to prepare militarily for war against Vladimir Putin. Recent incidents include an August explosion at an Italian munitions factory, a fire at a Bulgarian storage site, attacks on French electrical transformers, and a September drone strike on Leipzig airport. Experts note Russia's campaign has now expanded from Central to Western Europe, targeting defense industries supporting Ukraine. The Kremlin aims to destabilize Europe and exploit political divisions as the continent becomes Ukraine's primary military backer. Citing a 1913 warning that lasting peace requires readiness for war, analysts stress the urgency of deterring further escalation before it's too late.