Spain Reports: Russia Preparing Drone Attacks on Mediterranean Countries

Russia is preparing a possible drone attack against one of three Mediterranean countries — Spain, France or Italy — according to the Spanish newspaper El Mundo, citing sources close to Lithuania's Ministry of Defence. The paper reports that the governments of all three nations have already received corresponding warnings.

"Drones will be launched from the sea, hidden inside a container aboard a ship. It's really not complicated at all," El Mundo quotes a source who asked to remain anonymous. According to this source, the attack could involve "Gerbera"-type drones.

Why These Countries Were Chosen

The paper notes that all three countries will hold elections in 2027, with radical political forces taking part that could exploit public fatigue with the war in Ukraine and fears of escalation. It particularly highlights that both France and Italy have politicians whose views align closely with the Kremlin's interests.

According to the report, Lithuania and other countries began receiving intelligence about a possible drone attack from ships shortly after CIA Director John Ratcliffe's mysterious trip to Moscow on August 25. Details of the visit remain unknown, though he did make a stop in Riga, the Latvian capital. The Wall Street Journal and Politico reported that the CIA chief travelled to Russia to warn Moscow against any attacks or provocations targeting NATO.

Macron and Tusk Sound the Alarm

According to El Mundo, several defence experts interviewed for the story are aware of a CIA report that was circulated among European foreign ministries. The report reportedly describes the attack scenario in remarkably precise detail, and France reacted to it with great seriousness.

French President Emmanuel Macron convened a Defence Council meeting on September 16, and two days later invited representatives of all political parties and potential candidates for the 2027 presidential election to the Élysée Palace. He stated at the time that France faces the threat of a Russian hybrid attack and that the country needs to strengthen protection of its infrastructure.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk also announced on September 17 that, according to intelligence data, Russia is planning drone attacks this autumn and winter against countries supporting Ukraine, including Poland.

What's Known About the "Gerbera" Drones

These drones are roughly two metres long with a wingspan of 2.5 metres, weigh up to 18 kilograms, and reach speeds of around 160 km/h. Their claimed maximum range is 600 kilometres, though this depends on the weight of the warhead and weather conditions.

"A cargo ship can carry several of these devices at once, and launching them via catapult is far simpler than with larger drones like the Shahed or Geran," the Spanish outlet notes.

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Around Prague, based on reporting by novinky.cz