Macron Denies CIA Alert of Russian Drone Attacks in France but Acknowledges Hybrid Threats

French President Emmanuel Macron publicly denied reports that French intelligence had received a CIA alert warning of potential Russian drone attacks targeting southern France. The Spanish newspaper El Mundo had claimed the CIA warned European governments, including France, Spain, and Italy, about possible attacks using Russian Gerbera drones launched from merchant vessels stationed 200 to 300 kilometers off the Mediterranean coast. These drones could target critical infrastructure such as ports and airports.

During interviews on France 2 and TF1, Macron reiterated that France has not experienced such attacks yet but confirmed that the threat is real given the broader context of Russia's war in Ukraine. He referenced a recent Russian drone attack attempt on Leipzig Airport in Germany, emphasizing Moscow's strategic interest in Europe.

In response, Macron has ordered the French government to develop a comprehensive plan to protect critical infrastructure from hybrid warfare attacks. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez supported this position, describing the Russian hybrid warfare threat as "real and documented." Expert Stéphane Audrand underscored the feasibility of drone attacks launched from the Mediterranean, given Russia's access to a fleet of vessels and drones capable of carrying explosives.

This update clarifies misinformation about imminent attacks while confirming France's vigilance and preparedness against evolving hybrid threats linked to the Ukraine conflict.