Western intelligence has reported that recruiters and propagandists formerly working for the Russian private military company Wagner have become a key channel for Kremlin-backed sabotage operations in Europe. Russian intelligence has become highly active in seeking "disposable" agents in Europe to spread chaos. Facing a decline in covert operatives in Europe following multiple diplomatic expulsions from EU capitals, Russian intelligence is increasingly relying on intermediaries to achieve its goals. Influential European intelligence sources told the FT that Wagner's network has proven particularly effective – albeit crude – for this purpose. European intelligence and security agencies have closely monitored Wagner's role in Russia's sabotage campaign from the start.

Source: The Times February 16, 2026 08:35 UTC