In a stark warning to the Danish public, the country’s National Security and Intelligence Service (PET) announced Thursday that Russian operatives are actively recruiting Danish citizens to assist in sabotage planning against Denmark’s defence industry. The recruitment effort, according to PET’s head of counter‑espionage Emil Gresholm, focuses on firms with ties to Ukraine and aims to gather visual intelligence that could be used to damage critical infrastructure.
Russian recruitment tactics
Gresholm explained that Russian agents are reaching out on social‑media platforms and online gaming communities, asking ordinary Danes to take photographs of defence facilities, warehouses, and other strategic sites. “It is extremely serious if ordinary Danes help Russian intelligence services—either deliberately or unwittingly,” he said in a statement released to the press.
The PET agency says it has identified concrete examples of these outreach attempts, describing them as part of a broader Russian hybrid‑war strategy that blends cyber‑operations, disinformation, and covert sabotage. The agency’s findings come as Europe grapples with a recent surge in Russian‑linked sabotage incidents, including a suspected drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport in Germany that prompted EU calls for new sanctions.
Denmark’s response
Pet officials are urging Danish companies, especially those involved in defence production, to tighten security protocols and to be vigilant for any unsolicited contact from unknown individuals. They recommend that employees report any suspicious requests for photographs or site information to PET immediately.
While Moscow has denied involvement in hybrid‑war activities, PET’s statements suggest a coordinated effort to undermine the security of NATO‑aligned nations. The agency stresses that the recruitment drive is not limited to a single sector; any infrastructure that could support defence operations may be a target.
Implications for the broader region
The revelation adds to growing concerns across Europe about Russia’s willingness to employ non‑military means to weaken allied defence capabilities. Countries such as Germany and the United Kingdom have recently heightened their own counter‑espionage measures, and the EU is considering additional sanctions aimed at Russian intelligence networks.
Denmark’s intelligence community is working closely with its NATO partners to share information and to develop joint strategies to counter these covert operations. The PET agency also plans to increase public awareness campaigns, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding sensitive information and the legal consequences of aiding foreign intelligence services.
What citizens can do
Pet officials advise the public to remain cautious when approached online, especially if asked to provide images or details about industrial sites. They recommend verifying the identity of any requester and reporting suspicious activity through official PET channels.
As the situation develops, PET will continue to monitor Russian recruitment attempts and will provide updates to both the government and the public. The agency’s message is clear: vigilance and cooperation are essential to protect Denmark’s defence sector and national security.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
