Pekka Toveri, a former Chief of Intelligence in the Finnish Defense Forces and currently a Member of the European Parliament, warns that Russian President Vladimir Putin is attempting to interfere in important elections across Europe. He argues that while Russia can conduct military operations in Ukraine and use hybrid warfare tactics to threaten Europe, it is losing its status as a global superpower. Toveri emphasizes that Russia's struggle in various alliances, particularly in Iran, Syria, and Venezuela, showcases this decline in influence.

Toveri reflects on the period before the war in Ukraine, where Russia was perceived to have increased its global influence, often beyond what its actual capabilities would suggest. He cites the Russian military intervention in Syria, where they supported Assad's regime by conducting bombings that caused significant civilian casualties, as an example of Russia's assertive presence in the Middle East and Africa. This involvement allowed Russia to become a significant player, prompting concerns from Israel and Western nations about their geopolitical strategies.

Furthermore, Toveri points out that while Russia maintains some capacity for hybrid warfare and military force, the overall trend indicates a diminishing role on the world stage. He asserts that major powers currently see little need to negotiate with Russia, reflecting a changing global dynamic in which Russia's strengths are perceived as weak and ineffective in comparison to other global actors.