Russian intelligence services are reportedly expanding operations across Europe by utilizing former fighters from the private military company Wagner to recruit individuals who can partake in sabotage activities in Western countries. According to the Financial Times, these former recruiters, who had previously hired Russians and citizens from other nations to participate in military operations worldwide—including in Ukraine—have been given new tasks to find individuals facing economic difficulties in Europe for missions defined by Russian intelligence.

The recruitment campaign reportedly targets disposable agents willing to engage in diverse forms of sabotage, ranging from arson to the dissemination of extremist materials. This move comes on the heels of mass expulsions of Russian diplomats from several European capitals, which have diminished Moscow's capabilities to leverage its traditional intelligence networks. As a result, Moscow appears to be adapting its strategy by outsourcing some of its operations to private mercenaries who may be more capable of maneuvering within these challenging environments.

This development has broader implications for European security, as the increase in Russian activities could exacerbate tensions and provoke further countermeasures from Western nations. Additionally, the focus on recruiting individuals facing economic hardship raises concerns about the vulnerability of certain populations to manipulation and exploitation by foreign entities, which could have lasting impacts on regional stability and public safety.