Strengthening Europe’s Actions Against Hybrid Threats: Setting Up a PROTEUS Programme

Hybrid threats targeting the European Union (EU) and its Member States have intensified, ranging from cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns to the sabotage of critical infrastructure and election interference. The evolving security landscape underscores the urgent need for a paradigm shift in the EU’s approach to hybrid warfare.

This policy brief examines the growing scope and complexity of hybrid threats, emphasizing the involvement of authoritarian states and non-state actors in undermining EU security and stability. It evaluates the EU's existing frameworks and response mechanisms, such as the Hybrid Toolbox, Hybrid Fusion Cell, and EU-NATO cooperation while identifying critical gaps.

To address these challenges, the brief advocates for a bold new EU initiative—PROTEUS. Furthermore, it calls for the creation of an EU Cyber Command, stronger disinformation countermeasures, and increased engagement with candidate countries vulnerable to hybrid attacks.

As hybrid aggression escalates, the EU is urged to act decisively, investing in resilience and preparedness to safeguard European democracy, security, and strategic autonomy.