BRUSSELS

NATO is exploring a more aggressive approach to counter Russia's hybrid warfare, including cyber attacks, sabotage, and airspace violations, according to the alliance's top military officer.

Adm. Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, chair of NATO's Military Committee, told the Financial Times on Monday that the alliance is assessing options to move from a reactive to a "more aggressive or proactive" stance, particularly in cyberspace.

He suggested that NATO could consider pre-emptive measures as a form of defensive action, though this would represent a departure from the alliance's traditional practices.

NATO's Baltic Sentry mission has been cited as an example of effective deterrence, having prevented further cable-cutting incidents by vessels linked to the so-called Russia's shadow fleet.

However, legal and jurisdictional limitations were highlighted as key challenges, with Dragone noting that NATO faces more restrictions than its counterparts due to ethical and legal considerations.

European governments are debating stronger responses as suspected Russian hybrid attacks increase across the continent.

Drones linked to Russia have reportedly violated airspace in Poland and Romania, while unidentified drones disrupted airports and military sites in Western Europe. A key rail line between Warsaw and Kyiv was sabotaged, prompting Poland to deploy 10,000 troops to protect critical infrastructure.

Some NATO members, including Denmark, the Czech Republic, and the UK, already conduct offensive cyber operations, while others, like Germany and Romania, are expanding legal powers to intercept drones over sensitive areas.