Nato is actively considering a significant shift towards a more aggressive defensive posture, which could include pre-emptive strikes, in response to a sustained campaign of hybrid attacks by Russia across Europe.
Admiral Dragone Outlines New Strategic Thinking
According to Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, the Chair of the Nato Military Committee, the alliance is examining a fundamental change in its approach. The Italian naval officer stated that Nato is exploring options to counter Russian activities more forcefully, moving beyond a purely reactive stance.
This strategic reassessment is driven by a series of hostile incidents. Admiral Dragone specifically pointed to Russian drone incursions, cyberattacks, and deliberate damage to critical undersea infrastructure as key threats necessitating a firmer response.
Baltic Sea Incidents Heighten Tensions
The urgency for a new strategy is underscored by evidence from the Baltic Sea region. A recent Financial Times investigation documented 11 separate incidents where vessels damaged vital energy and communication cables on the seabed. These acts of sabotage have pushed the alliance into a state of heightened alert.
Admiral Dragone argued that in this new context, a pre-emptive military action could be legally and morally framed as a "defensive action". He acknowledged this would mark a clear departure from Nato's traditional behaviour and would require careful navigation of existing international legal frameworks.
Operation Baltic Sentry and Ongoing Challenges
Nato has already taken steps to bolster security in the region. Operation Baltic Sentry, launched in January 2025 to patrol the area and deter Russia's so-called 'shadow fleet', has been deemed effective by the Military Committee chair.
However, Admiral Dragone noted that jurisdictional complexities in international waters continue to pose a serious challenge for enforcement and deterrence. The alliance's deliberations on a more proactive strategy aim to address these persistent grey zones where hybrid warfare thrives.
