Russia could widen Ukraine war with covert attacks on Europe, leaders warn

European leaders are warning that Russia could widen its war on Ukraine through covert attacks across Europe, including sabotage, cyberattacks, and drone incidents, as the frontline remains stagnant more than four years into the invasion. Western officials fear Moscow may test NATO's resolve with actions below the threshold of open warfare. Russian forces are losing momentum in eastern Ukraine, with drone use preventing large-scale troop movements, while Moscow faces a monthly recruitment shortfall of around 6,000 troops despite enlisting volunteers and North Korean fighters. Western intelligence has linked Russia to incidents like explosive-laden drones found at Leipzig airport, which French President Emmanuel Macron said showed Russian military intelligence intended to cause casualties. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned Moscow plans strikes on countries supporting Ukraine to weaken NATO unity, though European security sources say no concrete intention to execute such plans has been detected. Uncertainty over US President Donald Trump's response to any attack on a NATO member is seen as a victory for Moscow.