Russia plots to target US-linked defense projects: US intelligence

US intelligence officials have issued a stern warning to American defense companies, particularly those helping Ukraine in its war against Russia, to strengthen their security measures against potential sabotage activities linked to Moscow.
Advisory issued on Thursday by National Counter Intelligence and Security Center (NCSC), highlights Russia’s growing concerns Hybrid warfare strategy Targeting allies of Ukraine.
“Russia’s subversive activities in Europe increase the risk to U.S. companies abroad and potentially at home,” the bulletin said. It warns that such actions could disrupt infrastructure and commerce and cause significant damage.
The alert was issued jointly by the FBI and multiple departments of defense agencies.
US and European intelligence agencies have linked Russia to several sabotage incidents across Europe, including arson attacks in the United Kingdom and Poland, news agency AP reported. Officials revealed that Russian intelligence employed local criminals to carry out the operation.
Earlier this year, UK authorities charged several individuals for an arson attack on a Ukraine-related business in London, allegedly orchestrated by Russian intelligence.
Similarly, Polish authorities arrested nearly two dozen people for allegedly plotting acts of sabotage, including arson, on behalf of Russia and Belarus.
Notably, Western security officials suspect that Russian intelligence was behind the plot to smuggle explosive devices onto cargo planes bound for North America. This includes burning appliances in courier hubs in Germany and warehouses in England.
Moscow has denied the allegations, and no immediate threat to US-bound flights has been reported.
The NCSC has advised US companies to enhance their security protocols, conduct routines Incident response exercisesand provide regular safety training to employees. Employees are also urged to limit the online sharing of personal and professional information, as adversaries can use these details to identify vulnerabilities.
According to Newsweek, the bulletin also emphasized that “those involved in work related to Ukraine or other geopolitical conflicts should be cautious about disclosing work, travel, personal and family information online.”