Paris accuses Moscow of digital offensive against its institutions
French diplomacy has summoned the Russian ambassador to denounce a computer espionage campaign attributed to Moscow's foreign intelligence service.
Paris accuses Moscow of digital offensive against its institutions
French authorities summoned the Russian ambassador to Paris on Monday. This diplomatic measure follows the revelation of a vast computer espionage operation conducted against France and other nations of the European Union.
The Quai d'Orsay identified the 16th centre of the FSB, the foreign intelligence service of the Russian Federation, as responsible. More precisely, its unit 61420 — specifically dedicated to targeting French territory — is said to be involved. The attacks would be based on the "Turla" method, a recognised signature of this service's activities.
French armed forces as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were among the main targets of this offensive. The most recent documented incidents date from 2025. According to the head of diplomacy, this campaign is ongoing and its scope continues to grow.
In the past, Paris had primarily blamed the GRU, Russian military intelligence, in similar matters. This time, it is the FSB that is explicitly identified. Besides France, Germany has also recalled Moscow's diplomatic representative.
Source: Le Figaro
Source: Le Figaro