Germany and the Netherlands have pledged closer intelligence cooperation to defend against hybrid operations launched by Moscow. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that European allies must adapt to a reality where the Kremlin routinely carries out arson and sabotage on the continent's soil to destabilize the region.

Chancellor Merz warned separately that his government is readying for major hybrid attacks, stating that Berlin would respond to such provocations quickly and clearly. Rutte's warning signals a shift for the alliance, moving from preparing for potential threats to anticipating persistent and regular sabotage across Europe.