Dutch intelligence agencies warn of an increased threat of sabotage in the country from Russia.
According to NOS, this mainly concerns cyberattacks aimed at undermining social stability and creating a sense of anxiety. This is stated in a new joint report by the General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD), Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD), and the National Coordinator for Counterterrorism and Security (NCTV).
“The threat of sabotage from Russia and pro-Russian actors in the Netherlands has increased. These are mostly simple sabotage acts, such as digital DDoS attacks aimed at destabilizing Dutch society and creating an atmosphere of anxiety. The likelihood of a direct Russian military attack on NATO territory is considered low,” the statement reads.
It is noted that the threat from Russia remains consistently high, and European countries may receive less military support from the United States.
Eric Akerboom, head of the Dutch General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD), called the Netherlands a “potential target” for sabotage and espionage. Many communication cables run through the North Sea, and damage to them could have serious consequences—similarly to sabotage of power supply or infrastructure facilities. Digital sabotage could lead to temporary outages of electricity, internet, payment systems, or clean drinking water, the report says.
The report also mentions that countries like China and Iran continue active espionage to obtain Dutch technologies.
Against the backdrop of reduced support from the U.S. and growing international tensions, national services call for strengthening cybersecurity and crisis preparedness.
The three agencies have identified specific signs of Russian sabotage activity. In particular, pro-Russian actors try to slow down aid delivery to Ukraine.
Intelligence services believe that espionage by Russia, Iran, and China, as well as sabotage linked to Russia, may increase feelings of anxiety and danger in Dutch society. Therefore, it is important for the Netherlands to become increasingly resilient to threats.
