France officially accused Russia of cyberattacks targeted against the country, including hacking into the electoral campaign of former President Emmanuel Macron in 2017
These statements were made in the context of growing tensions in the field of information security, and Paris does not conceal its disappointment and concern over the scale and objectives of Russian actions in cyberspace. The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued an official statement emphasizing that Russia bears responsibility for a series of cyberattacks recorded over the recent years. They specifically blame Russian military intelligence for conducting cyber intrusions, involving a group known by the code name APT28 or Fancy Bear. French officials claim that since 2021, about ten government and private entities in France have become victims of hacking attacks that, in their words, aimed to undermine the stability and security of the country. According to information provided by the French MFA, among the affected targets are various government agencies, private companies, and even sports organizations preparing to host the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Additionally, in 2022, French media reported a large-scale cyberattack on the country's Ministry of Defense, which is also attributed to Russian hackers. Historical experience confirms that events of the past demonstrate Russia’s tendency to use cyber means to destabilize France. For example, in 2015, the APT28 group carried out an attack on the French television channel TV5Monde, causing widespread broadcasting disruptions. Similarly, on the eve of the 2017 French elections, thousands of emails and documents were leaked—an incident that caused significant resonance and was seen as one of the manifestations of information warfare. Despite the official accusations, French intelligence agencies at the time stated that there was no confirmed Russian interference in their electoral system. However, Paris emphasizes that this Russian group APT28, which belongs to the GRU of the Russian General Staff, actively conducts cyberattacks not only against France but also against other countries, especially Ukraine, which has become the main arena of Russian aggression. The French MFA stressed that all these actions are entirely unacceptable and violate international law. France notes that most UN member states call for responsible behavior in cybersecurity, and crossing red lines such as cyber espionage and hacking information systems undermines international stability. The statement also underscores that Russia, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, must bear responsibility for its actions and strive to adhere to international norms. Moreover, the European Union and NATO have repeatedly expressed their firm readiness to respond to such cyber threats. The alliances declare their intention to give a decisive response to any forms of aggression undermining the security of partner countries, and emphasize the importance of strengthening joint measures to counter cyberattacks. Thus, France’s official accusations reaffirm that warfare in cyberspace is becoming an increasingly significant and dangerous component of modern geopolitical struggle. Russia remains a persistent actor in this contest, employing complex means to destabilize and influence the political and security situation not only in France but across the globe.