December 15, 2025
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MI6 chief: Putin dragging out talks to subjugate Ukraine; warns of 'gray‑zone' attacks

MI6 chief warned that President Vladimir Putin is deliberately dragging out peace talks to subjugate Ukraine and harass NATO members, describing Russia as a growing threat in Europe. He said Moscow is operating in a "space between peace and war," using tactics just below the threshold of war—cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, drone incursions around airports, arson, sabotage and disinformation—and that the "export of chaos is a feature, not a bug," as allies press for a swift peace deal while Zelenskyy met U.S. envoys in Berlin.

Russia and European Security UK Intelligence and Cybersecurity Russia‑Ukraine War Intelligence and National Security

📌 Key Facts

  • MI6 chief Metreweli says Putin is dragging out negotiations and remains determined to subjugate Ukraine and harass NATO members.
  • Metreweli characterizes the threat environment as a "space between peace and war," warning Russia is using tactics "just below the threshold of war."
  • She warns of a range of "gray-zone" attacks, including cyberattacks on critical infrastructure; drone incursions around European airports; arson, sabotage, and disinformation; and aggressive activities at sea "above and below the waves."
  • Metreweli states that "the export of chaos is a feature, not a bug" of Russia’s approach.
  • Her remarks came as allies pressed for a swift peace deal and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy met U.S. envoys in Berlin the same day.

📰 Sources (2)

UK spy chief says Putin is dragging out peace talks and wants to subjugate Ukraine
PBS News by Jill Lawless, Associated Press December 15, 2025
New information:
  • Metreweli says Putin is 'dragging out negotiations' and remains determined to 'subjugate Ukraine and harass NATO members.'
  • She characterizes the threat environment as a 'space between peace and war' and says Russia is using tactics 'just below the threshold of war.'
  • Details alleged Russian activities: cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, drone incursions around European airports, arson, sabotage, and disinformation, including 'aggressive activities in our seas, above and below the waves.'
  • Quotes that 'the export of chaos is a feature, not a bug' of Russia’s approach.
  • Context that Zelenskyy met U.S. envoys in Berlin the same day as allies press for a swift peace deal.
U.K. Spy Chief Warns of Growing Russia Threat in Europe
Nytimes by Mark Landler December 15, 2025