Rising Threat from Russia’s GRU
LONDON (Reuters) – Russia’s military intelligence, the GRU, is actively seeking to create disorder across Britain and Europe, according to the UK’s MI5 Director General, Ken McCallum. In his recent annual speech, McCallum warned that the GRU is on a mission to cause “mayhem,” engaging in dangerous activities such as arson and sabotage, often carried out recklessly.
Terrorism Concerns: Al-Qaeda and ISIS
While addressing security threats, McCallum highlighted that groups like al-Qaeda and ISIS remain a significant concern. He explained that ISIS is resuming its efforts to export terrorism, citing a March attack on a Moscow concert hall. Although the conflict in the Middle East has not yet resulted in widespread militant violence in the UK, MI5 remains alert.
Iran’s Involvement in UK Plots
McCallum also accused Iran of being behind numerous plots on British soil. Since January 2022, MI5 and British police have responded to 20 Iranian-backed plots that pose serious risks to UK citizens and residents. He described this pace and scale of Iranian threats as “unprecedented.”
Increasing Terrorism Threats at Home
Since March 2017, MI5 and British police have disrupted 43 late-stage terror plots, some of which were close to mass casualties. Alarmingly, McCallum noted that 13% of those under investigation for involvement in terrorism are under 18, marking a threefold increase in the last three years.
Use of Proxies by Russia and Iran
Despite the expulsion of over 750 Russian diplomats from Europe since the Ukraine invasion, Russia has turned to proxies, including criminals and drug traffickers, to carry out its operations. McCallum described the GRU’s continued efforts to cause disruption across Britain and Europe as “eye-catching.”
Conclusion
As the threats from both state actors and terrorist organizations continue to evolve, MI5 remains vigilant in its mission to protect the UK, handling a wide range of complex and growing challenges.
