Russia could use cyberattacks as part of its efforts to destabilize and
invade Ukraine. This was stated by a White House cyber official when he met
his colleagues in Europe.
Anne Neuberger, deputy US National Security adviser for cyberspace and
emerging technologies, met with EU and NATO officials in Brussels to discuss
the threat of a cyberattack against Ukraine by Russia.
"We have been warning for weeks and months, both publicly and privately
about a potential attack," Neuberger said, as quoted by Reuters on Wednesday
(2/2/2022).
"Russia has used cyberspace as a key component of their power projection
over the past decade, including previously in Ukraine," Neuberger continued.
Russia has amassed more than 100,000 troops along the border with Ukraine.
This condition sparked fears of war.
Although Russia denies planning an invasion, Moscow demands security
guarantees, including promises that NATO will never admit to Ukraine.
Neuberger's visit comes after a massive cyberattack that hit a Ukrainian
government website in mid-January.
The cyberattack rendered several websites inaccessible and prompted Kiev to
open an investigation.
Kiev believes a hacker group linked to intelligence in Belarus, a close ally
of Russia, carried out the cyber attack using malware similar to that used
by groups linked to Russian intelligence.
Until now, tensions continue to rise on the border of Ukraine and Russia.
Both sides blamed each other about the buildup of troops on the opposing
side. Russia itself has repeatedly stated that it has no intention of
invading Ukraine.
On the other hand, Russia has accused the West and NATO of having built up
troops in Europe, a condition the Kremlin says could put Russia at risk.
