Greece Positioned at the Forefront of Digital Warfare

The ongoing digital conflict between East and West has intensified, with Greece emerging as a critical player on the southeastern border of Europe. According to Michael Bletsas, commander of Greece’s National Cyber Security Authority, the country faces unique challenges due to its geographical position and the perceived aggressiveness of its eastern neighbour.

In an interview with Euronews Next, Bletsas highlighted the complexities of Greece’s situation. He stated, “We play our role very well on the border, in the corner, in the southeast corner of Europe. We wouldn’t want to be us.” The commander emphasized the importance of recognition from other European nations regarding Greece’s role in this digital battleground. He expressed a desire for Europe’s borders to extend further east but acknowledged that current conditions do not support such a shift.

The threats Greece faces are distinct from those encountered by countries in the Baltic States. While incidents of hybrid warfare are prevalent in northeastern Europe, Bletsas noted that Greece has not experienced similar acts of sabotage or infrastructure attacks. “Right now, what is most visible is cybercrime,” he explained, indicating a rise in activities such as denial-of-service attacks and other forms of cyber vandalism that, while disruptive, do not cause lasting damage.

The commander pointed out that the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals, bolstered by advancements in artificial intelligence, has contributed to a surge in cybercrime in Greece. “We are seeing a big increase in attacks, and of course, we have a lot of espionage,” he stated, highlighting the growing challenges faced by Greek authorities.

Bletsas raised the pressing question of Greece’s neutrality in the escalating digital conflict. He asserted that true neutrality is no longer an option, stating, “We have lost it here and too much.” He emphasized that Athens must contend with an additional aggressive neighbour that other European partners may not fully comprehend. This perception creates a multitude of issues for Greece, which must navigate the delicate balance between security and cooperation.

He further elaborated on the interconnectedness of the physical and digital realms, stating, “Separating the physical from the digital world is one and the same.” This perspective underlines the need for a comprehensive approach to security that integrates both domains. Bletsas argued that only by thinking of security in terms of automation and digital infrastructure can Greece enhance its resilience against cyber threats.

As digital warfare continues to evolve, Bletsas asserted that this is not a conflict of the future, but rather one that is currently unfolding. Greece, whether it desires to or not, is already engaged in this struggle. The central question now revolves around the terms of its involvement, the alliances it will form, and the level of preparedness it will maintain in this complex landscape.