Venstre suggests the establishment of an EU cyber brigade to combat hybrid threats. The EU should create a small army of specialists in the cyber field, which can constitute a ready-to-fight cyber brigade. This is proposed by Venstre in a new EU defense plan. According to Venstre leader and Minister of Defense Troels Lund Poulsen, the threat of hybrid attacks directed at both Denmark and the rest of Europe is increasing. “The threat does not only come from foreign powers, but also from actors who may have interests in destabilizing parts or all of Europe. It could be terrorist organizations or similar. Therefore, we need a stronger preparedness than we have today,” says Troels Lund Poulsen to DR.
Venstre suggests that participation in the cyber brigade should be voluntary for EU member states. Denmark can, among other things, contribute specialists from the Center for Cyber Security and perhaps some of the cyber conscripted young people. As an example of the necessity of such a brigade, Troels Lund Poulsen mentions the extensive and destructive attack on Estonia in 2007. In May, the Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) and the Danish Defense Intelligence Service (FE) warned of an increasing threat from hybrid attacks and cyber attacks, including Russian hybrid warfare in Denmark.
Last week, Troels Lund Poulsen briefed the party leaders in the Danish Parliament and the Foreign Policy Committee on the threat of destabilizing election proceedings in Denmark. Although he does not fear that the Russians will destabilize the election proceedings for the EU election on the 9th of June, he is aware of the Russians’ general interest in destabilizing elections. Last fall, EU President Charles Michel proposed the idea of creating a common European “cyber force.” There is a desire at the EU top for better defense against cyber threats and hybrid threats.
Venstre has not yet provided a specific proposal on where the unit should be located or how large the brigade should be, but emphasizes the need for a solid structure in constant readiness. Venstre’s proposal includes a total of seven suggestions aimed at strengthening the EU’s ability to defend itself against cyber threats and hybrid threats. The plan will be presented on Monday morning at Christiansborg.