Europe may already be at war with Russia, says a former British intelligence chief.
Richard Dearlove, who led MI6 from 1999 to 2004, believes the conflict has expanded beyond Ukraine, according to Digi24.
In an interview with Sky News, he said Russia’s actions represent a hybrid war targeting multiple sectors across Europe.
Dearlove rejected the idea that Europe is in a “pre-war” state, a term recently used by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
“I think he’s wrong. I think it’s a real war,” Dearlove said.
He added that Russia considers itself to be in open conflict with the West. This, he explained, includes acts of sabotage, cyberattacks, and aggressive moves that stretch beyond traditional battlefields.
A Very Dangerous Situation
Russian intelligence services have been linked to several incidents across Europe. Finland, which joined NATO in 2023, has reported an increase in hybrid attacks near its border with Russia.
Western intelligence agencies, including those in the U.S., U.K., and Europe, have observed a sharp escalation in Russia’s tactics.
Dearlove described the situation as “very dangerous” and warned of potential divisions within the Western coalition.
The former MI6 chief pointed to upcoming political shifts as a challenge for Western unity.
The inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump could lead to changes in Washington’s support for NATO, Ukraine, and European allies.
These shifts, Dearlove warned, might weaken the coalition’s ability to confront Russia’s aggression.
Dearlove also addressed the importance of dialogue with Russia. While he sees value in maintaining communication, he expressed doubts about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s willingness to engage.
“It’s better to have some kind of dialogue than no contact at all,” he said. “But I’m not sure Russia is in a position, or a mood, where talking to Putin would be easy.”
