Russian-linked hackers attempted to infiltrate the UK Ministry of Defence by posing as journalists in a covert cyber espionage operation, according to a statement released by the British government on 29 May. The cyberattack was detected and successfully blocked by government cybersecurity teams.
In response to the attempted breach, Defence Minister John Healey announced the formation of a new UK cyber command dedicated to managing both offensive and defensive operations in the cyber domain.
“The nature of warfare is changing. The keyboard is now a weapon of war and we are responding to that,” Healey stated during a visit to a government facility involved in disrupting the Russian-linked operation.
Russia accused of escalating hybrid warfare across Europe
The UK is not alone in facing such threats. Western security officials have repeatedly warned of a surge in Russian-linked cyberattacks and hybrid operations targeting nations supporting Ukraine.
Earlier in May, the UK accused Russia’s military intelligence agency (GRU) of launching cyber campaigns aimed at Western logistics and tech firms involved in aiding Ukraine. France has also pointed to a GRU-linked hacker group for intensifying cyberattacks against French government ministries.
Cyberwarfare intensifies as Ukraine conflict escalates
Cyberwarfare has become a significant front in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Both countries have increasingly targeted governmental institutions and critical service providers. The UK is a key member of the international IT Coalition, which supports Ukraine’s cybersecurity and digital defence capabilities.
