Denmark’s security and intelligence service has warned that Russian intelligence is preparing possible sabotage operations against companies linked to the country’s defence industry, particularly firms involved in providing military assistance to Ukraine.
The warning was issued by Denmark’s Police Intelligence Service, known as PET, amid growing European concerns over espionage and covert operations linked to Russia. The development was reported by Anadolu Agency on Thursday, 3 September.
Emil Græsholm, head of PET’s counter-intelligence division, told Danish media outlets DR and Berlingske that Russia was pursuing specific plans targeting companies that support Ukraine’s military effort. He stressed that the threat should not be viewed merely as a hypothetical possibility for the future, saying there were indications that practical preparations for such operations had already begun.
According to PET, Russian operatives have also been attempting to recruit or manipulate ordinary Danish citizens through social media and other online platforms. Individuals may initially be approached with seemingly routine tasks, such as taking photographs or gathering information about particular locations or businesses. Intelligence gathered through such activities could subsequently be used to support sabotage operations, the agency said.
The warning has prompted Danish authorities to strengthen coordination between PET, the country’s military intelligence service and other relevant government bodies. Security measures are being reviewed in response to the potential threat, with particular attention being given to businesses connected to defence production and military support for Ukraine.
Rasmus Anderskau, security chief at the Confederation of Danish Industry, has urged companies to remain vigilant. Businesses are being encouraged to take suspicious approaches seriously and pay closer attention to attempts to obtain photographs, operational details or other information about their facilities.
Flemming Splidsboel, a senior researcher at the Danish Institute for International Studies, described the reported threat as representing a new and more advanced level of security challenge for Denmark. His assessment reflects wider concerns across Europe about covert Russian activities targeting infrastructure, businesses and organisations that have supported Ukraine since Russia’s invasion.
Former military intelligence analyst Jacob Kaarsbo said the Danish authorities’ decision to issue an advance warning could also serve as a direct message to Moscow. By publicly highlighting the suspected preparations, Denmark is signalling that its intelligence agencies are monitoring potential Russian activities and are prepared to respond.
The warning comes as Denmark remains involved in European efforts to support Ukraine. For Danish security authorities, the challenge is therefore not limited to conventional military threats. Intelligence gathering, recruitment through online platforms and possible sabotage are increasingly being treated as part of a broader security landscape surrounding the war in Ukraine.
