Chancellor Friedrich Merz is placing his hopes on a new BND chief.

The Future of European Security: What is Next For NATO – CEPAPost LinkGeminiEuropean Intelligence in Ukraine’s War European intelligence services play a significant and evolving role in Ukraine’s strategic planning and the conduct of its war with Russia, often in close coordination with other Western partners, particularly the United States. While the precise details of intelligence sharing are classified, several key aspects of this role can be observed:1. Intelligence Sharing and Situational Awareness: Real-time Monitoring and Early Warning: European countries are working to enhance Ukraine’s access to intelligence data, relevant technology, and satellite information.1 This includes efforts to establish early-warning centers and provide real-time monitoring of critical areas, such as the Black Sea, to counter Russian threats and activities.2Situational Awareness: Intelligence from European services helps Ukraine gain a comprehensive understanding of Russian troop movements, logistics, capabilities, and intentions. This information is crucial for Ukraine to make informed strategic decisions and adapt its military operations. Countering Russian Subversion: European intelligence agencies are actively countering an escalating campaign of sabotage and subversion by Russian military intelligence (GRU) within Europe, which often targets entities linked to Western aid to Ukraine. This involves increased intelligence sharing among Western agencies and strengthening resilience against hybrid warfare tactics. 2. Strategic Planning and Military Operations: Targeting and Precision Strikes: While Ukraine has its own intelligence capabilities, Western intelligence, including that from Europe, aids in precision targeting for long-range strikes against Russian assets. This is particularly important for capabilities that Ukraine heavily relies on, such as air defense and precision targeting. Defense Against Air and Missile Threats: European intelligence helps Ukraine in detecting and anticipating Russian ballistic missile launches and other aerial threats, contributing to Ukraine’s air defense strategy. Adapting to Modern Warfare: The war has highlighted the need for innovation in defense.3 European partners are working with Ukraine to integrate advanced technologies, including drone technology, cyber warfare, and artificial intelligence, into Ukraine’s military strategy.4 This involves knowledge transfer and support for Ukrainian innovation in these areas.