Europe Fears Russia Could Stage a 'Grey-Zone' Attack on NATO

European officials increasingly fear Russia could launch a "grey-zone" attack on NATO territory designed to appear accidental, staying below the threshold of open warfare and complicating the alliance's response. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned Russia might strike NATO while making it look unintentional. Such ambiguous incidents, including drone incursions, sabotage, or cyberattacks, could force NATO's 32 members to debate whether they face isolated events or a coordinated campaign, delaying unified action. Lithuania, bordering Russia and Belarus, is especially exposed, with Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevičius confirming prepared plans for scenarios like evacuating elderly residents. Following Russia's Duma elections, European planners watch for potential escalations, though no evidence suggests an imminent new operation.