Dmytro Kuleba Warns of Putin’s Escalating Hybrid War Against Europe

Former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin is actively preparing for a broader confrontation with Europe, evidenced by escalating hybrid attacks and persistent anti-European propaganda. According to an interview with the Axel Springer Global Reporters Network, as reported by Dnes.bg, these tactics suggest that the Kremlin is positioning itself for a conflict that extends beyond the borders of Ukraine.

Escalating Hybrid Tactics Across Europe

European officials have observed a marked increase in Russian hybrid operations in recent months, including cyberattacks, sabotage, and disinformation campaigns. These activities aim to destabilize critical infrastructure and erode Western support for the Ukrainian military. Kuleba pointed to a failed drone attack on an airport in Leipzig, Germany, in August 2024 as a clear indicator of Russia’s growing preparation for offensive actions on the continent.

German authorities have since attributed that specific incident to Moscow, prompting a comprehensive security review of strategic sites across the country. Kuleba, who served as Ukraine’s top diplomat from 2020 until September 2024, argued that Moscow is testing the resilience and intelligence capabilities of European nations to gauge their collective response.

Strategic Use of Drones to Test NATO

While Kuleba does not expect an immediate, full-scale conventional invasion of NATO territory, he warned that Moscow is likely to employ targeted drone strikes against key European infrastructure. He suggested that such actions are designed to challenge the unity and resolve of the Alliance.

"The truth is that Russia doesn’t need another 400,000 people to wage this war. It needs five drones," Kuleba told the Axel Springer network. He cautioned that if European nations respond only by calling for restraint or requesting consultations, it will likely embolden Putin to escalate further.

The Breakdown of Diplomatic Solutions

Kuleba dismissed the possibility that Putin could be swayed by negotiations, characterizing the Russian leader as a fundamental obstacle to peace. He noted that while European political culture often seeks "win-win" outcomes, Putin operates on a binary principle of victory and defeat. Consequently, Kuleba argued that attempting to reach a negotiated settlement under current conditions is a misuse of diplomatic resources.

Winter Risks and Civil Infrastructure

As winter approaches, Ukraine faces intensified aerial strikes targeting civilian energy infrastructure and transport networks. Recent attacks have struck bridges over the Dnieper River, residential buildings, and public facilities. In October 2026, a Russian strike in the Donbas region of Kramatorsk resulted in at least 33 fatalities after targeting two buses.

Kuleba described these bombings as a direct response to Russia’s inability to achieve a decisive breakthrough on the battlefield. He noted that the primary objective is to paralyze the country by destroying the systems essential for urban life, such as power, water, and sewage. Despite the severity of the situation, Kuleba maintained that Ukraine remains highly adaptable and will survive the winter, though he acknowledged that the cost in human and material terms will be significantly higher than in previous years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific evidence does Kuleba cite regarding Russian intentions?
Kuleba highlights the rise of anti-European rhetoric within Russia and the use of hybrid tactics, such as the August 2024 drone incident at a German airport, as evidence that Moscow is probing European security readiness.

How does Kuleba characterize the current Russian military strategy in Ukraine?
He describes the recent wave of strikes on civilian infrastructure—including power grids and transport hubs—as a strategic attempt to break the Ukrainian spirit and the resolve of international partners after failing to secure a victory on the front lines.

Is there a consensus on the likelihood of a wider conflict?
While Kuleba warns that Putin is preparing for a broader confrontation, he differentiates this from a full-scale conventional invasion, suggesting instead a campaign of targeted drone strikes intended to test the cohesion of NATO members.

More on this story: Ukraine Warns of Massive Russian Strike; Zelensky Urges Allies for Air Defenses