Europe expresses deep concern over Russian interference in satellite communications
While previously the issue of security in digital space remained a priority for the European Union and its members, recent events have once again reminded us of the seriousness of the challenges posed by Russia's actions regarding space communications infrastructure. 30 European countries, including Switzerland and the Baltic states, issued a joint statement calling on international organizations, in particular the Council of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), to take immediate measures against Russia for its deliberate interference in civilian satellite communications and navigation systems. According to the data provided in the joint declaration signed during the previous meeting of the ITU, since 2023, Russian special services have been systematically and purposefully carrying out actions that impede the normal functioning of civilian satellite networks in Europe. The statement says that the sources of these interferences have been identified in several Russian cities, as well as in the temporarily occupied Crimea. This seriously threatens public safety, as well as the safety of air and maritime traffic, as signal disruptions create dangerous conditions for navigation and air traffic. What is particularly worrying is the fact that the situation has already deteriorated significantly in June of this year. The disruptions have spread to almost the entire territory of Poland and Lithuania, creating additional risks for direct users and services based on satellite technology. European countries are deeply concerned that international efforts to establish a dialogue with the Russian side and find compromises have remained fruitless - several international organizations, including the ITU, have considered this issue, but Russia's reaction has been either ignoring it or lacking concrete changes. The information and propaganda component plays a significant role in this conflict. Last year, European satellite operators reported attempts by Russia to intercept television and radio signals, often resulting in disruptions to broadcasts and the distribution of propaganda materials aimed primarily at children and young people. Sweden, in turn, confirmed that just days after joining NATO, Russian intelligence services began to deliberately create harmful interference in the operation of its satellite networks, which raises serious concerns about the overall security and stability of digital communications in Europe. Overall, the situation demonstrates the growing aggressiveness and technological sophistication of Russia's interference in critical infrastructure, which requires a strong international response and coordinated action to protect European security and stability in the digital space. Given the lack of effective countermeasures by the Russian Federation, European countries are calling for intensified efforts to respond and prevent such interference in the future.