The Netherlands is increasingly targeted by Russian cyber operations, the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs says. It describes them as a threat to the country’s security and says international cooperation is essential to counter them.
Dutch intelligence services report that Russia is gathering information about the country’s wind farms, internet cables and gas pipelines. Cyberattacks are becoming more frequent and larger in scale, while artificial intelligence makes them easier to carry out.
The ministry says Russia also seeks to track Western officials, military personnel and journalists and steal their data. Hacked IP cameras have been used to monitor military transport routes. Russia also spreads disinformation to cause unrest in the Netherlands, divide its allies and influence elections.
The stated aims of these operations often include causing damage in the Netherlands, weakening its support for Ukraine or undermining public trust in the government, NATO or the European Union. The country works with other states, including through NATO and the EU, to detect threats early, strengthen systems and identify those responsible.
Sanctions are one part of the response. On 13 July 2026, the EU sanctioned 13 Russian individuals and companies involved in cyber operations in EU member states, including the Netherlands. The EU, NATO and the United Kingdom also issued statements and cyber-resilience advice, while Russia was summoned in a coordinated move in more than 7 countries, including the Netherlands.
Foreign Minister Berendsen said that speaking out publicly helps show that Russian cyber activity is being monitored, reduce the effectiveness of these actions and help people and businesses become more resilient. The Netherlands aims to strengthen its cybersecurity through diplomacy, intelligence, defence and law enforcement.
