EU Defense Commissioner Kubilius Says Europe Must Answer Russian Hybrid Attacks With 'Painful' Measures

European Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius has called for Europe to respond to hybrid attacks attributed to Russia with measures he described as "painful," arguing that the current response has not been forceful enough.

In remarks made to Euronews, Kubilius said the European Union needs a more robust reaction to the hybrid attacks blamed on Moscow, without detailing the exact nature of the measures he believes should be adopted. Hybrid attacks typically refer to a mix of cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, sabotage and other tactics that fall short of open military conflict.

Kubilius also rejected the idea of opening a diplomatic channel with the Kremlin, signaling that his approach favors pressure and deterrence over renewed dialogue with Russian authorities. He did not specify which EU member states or institutions would need to act for his proposed tougher stance to be implemented.

The comments reflect ongoing tension within European policy circles over how to balance deterrence against Russia with the risks of further escalation, a debate that has intensified alongside reports of hybrid incidents across multiple EU countries in recent months.

It is not yet clear whether Kubilius's call will translate into specific new EU policy proposals or sanctions measures in the near term.