Russia Denies Report of Sea Drone Attacks on Italy, France, Spain

A Spanish newspaper reported that Russia is preparing drone attacks launched from the sea against Italy, France, and Spain, potentially targeting them during 2027 election campaigns, but Italy's defense minister denied any confirmation of the threat. The report from El Mundo cited a source close to the Lithuanian Defense Ministry, claiming drones could be hidden in containers and launched from ships. It said Lithuania and other countries learned of the intelligence after CIA Director John Ratcliffe's August 25 visit to Moscow. Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto dismissed the report as unhelpful and unconfirmed, adding fuel to already tense times. The news came amid Russian drone strikes on Ukraine, including an attack on a Kyiv conference center and a raid killing seven in Kharkiv, plus four drones violating Moldovan airspace.