Key facts
- France will summon the Russian ambassador over an alleged 'vast cyber campaign'.
- The campaign is accused of espionage and sabotage purposes.
- Ten European countries, including France, were reportedly targeted.
- Sanctions will be imposed on nine individuals and four entities linked to Russia's FSB.
- Targets included government ministries, companies, and infrastructure like Polish rail.
France's foreign minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, announced that he will summon the Russian ambassador to explain Moscow's alleged involvement in a 'vast cyber campaign' aimed at espionage and sabotage across Europe. Barrot stated that ten European countries, including France, have been targeted in recent days.
The campaign, orchestrated by Russia's FSB security service, reportedly aimed to capture information or sabotage operations, with examples including rail infrastructure in Poland. Targets included government ministries and companies. France claims it was able to detect these hacks due to significantly strengthened cyber defenses.
In response, France will impose sanctions on nine individuals and four entities deemed responsible for the cyber campaign. Russia has a history of being accused of cyberattacks and sabotage across Europe, allegations that Moscow has consistently denied.