US intelligence warns Europe of possible Russian drone attacks: Report

The CIA has warned several European governments of a possible Russian drone operation against Spain, France, or Italy, Spanish newspaper El Mundo reported late Wednesday, citing sources familiar with the alert.

The newspaper said the potential operation could involve Gerbera drones concealed aboard merchant ships and launched from the Mediterranean Sea. A source close to Lithuania’s Defense Ministry told El Mundo that launching the drones from a ship would be relatively straightforward.

According to the report, officials in Lithuania have information about the type of drone that could be used, while the governments of Spain, France, and Italy have been informed of a possible operation against one of these countries.

The report said several defense analysts were aware of a detailed CIA report that had circulated among European governments.

The Gerbera has a reported maximum range of 600 kilometers (373 miles), depending on its payload and conditions, the newspaper said. Launched from 200-300 km (124-186 mi) offshore, such a drone could potentially damage exposed equipment or temporarily disrupt operations at a port or airport, it added.

El Mundo linked the warning to CIA Director John Ratcliffe’s Aug. 25 visit to Moscow. It also cited reports by The Wall Street Journal and Politico that Ratcliffe had warned Russia against attacks or provocations targeting NATO.

The reported intelligence warning and the alleged Russian plans have not been independently confirmed.