30/09/2026 Session
PACE has warned of escalating Russian attacks in Europe, while at the same time urging Council of Europe member states to reject the recent “sham elections” in Russia and not to recognise the resulting State Duma. It also unequivocally condemned the illegal conduct of so-called elections in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine.
Unanimously adopting a resolution based on a report by Alicia Kearns (United Kingdom, ECPA), the Assembly warned that: “Fake elections and hybrid attacks are the same project: manufacturing consent inside Russia and manufacturing fear and instability outside its borders.”
“Against the backdrop of a failure to achieve its military and strategic objectives in its war of aggression against Ukraine, despite immense human costs, over the last few months Russia’s hostile actions against the rest of Europe have intensified, entering a more dangerous phase,” the parliamentarians warned.
They cited cyberattacks, sabotage and arson, attempted assassinations, interference in democratic elections, attacks on critical infrastructure and navigation systems, industrialisation of disinformation, airspace violations and drone incursions.
European countries should provide stronger support to Ukraine, work together to counter Russian hybrid threats, maintain targeted sanctions, continue to exclude Russian representatives from international forums and cultural and sporting events, and continue to ensure accountability for Russian crimes.