CIA Warned European Allies That Russia Could Target Them With Drone Attacks: Report
The warning cites sea-launched Geran-5 drones that could start fires or temporarily close ports and airports, according to El Mundo.
- On Thursday, September 24, 2026, the CIA warned Spain, France, and Italy of possible Russian drone attacks launched from civilian ships, according to Spanish newspaper Mundo.
- Russian forces have previously launched drones from ships, and a source close to the Lithuanian Ministry said Russia could hide Geran-5 drones in shipping containers to evade detection.
- The Gerbera drone has a 600-kilometre range and weighs up to 18 kilograms; Spain lacks air defenses capable of countering sea-based drone attacks, El Mundo reported.
- Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto dismissed the report, stating "the alarm raised this morning by a Spanish newspaper helps no one, and there's no evidence to back it up."
- Western officials warn of intensified Russian hybrid warfare targeting Europe, while British expert Keir Giles noted Southern Europe might be chosen due to political fragility, though Vladimir Putin denies any intent to threaten European countries.
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Spain, France and Italy Named in Reported CIA Alert on Russian Drones but Rome Says It Has No Confirmation
Italy has rejected a report alleging Russia could launch drones from disguised merchant ships against Mediterranean targets, while European officials said no specific alert had been confirmed.
Spanish, French and Italian authorities have reportedly been warned about drone attacks from merchant ships
'Geranium apocalypse' — Courtesy of the CIA
Europe has apparently found its next Russian horror story: drones hidden aboard merchant ships, sailing quietly into the Mediterranean before suddenly striking Spain, France or Italy. And right on cue comes the CIA, with El Mundo reporting that US intelligence has "warned" European governments of precisely such a Russian plan. One small problem: even Italy's defence minister says the supposed alert has not been confirmed. The bigger question is …
‘No one needs more fuel on the fire.’ Italy pushes back on report that CIA warned of possible Russian sea-launched drone attacks.
The CIA warned Spain, France, and Italy about a possible Russian operation to launch drones from civilian ships, the Spanish newspaper El Mundo said on September 24, citing sources.
"I spoke to Minister Crosetto this morning, this news has no foundation." Antonio Tajani said, answering a question about the threat of Russian drones against Europe. "We have never had any reports in this regard. (ANSA)
EADaily, 24 September 2026: Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto denied the publication of a possible Russian attack on European countries.
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- 40% of the sources are Center, 40% of the sources lean Right
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