Dutch intelligence says security threats at their highest level in 80 years
The Dutch intelligence service AIVD believes the country is facing its greatest national security threat since the end of World War II.
According to Ukrinform, citing NOS, the agency's annual report states that the Netherlands is simultaneously facing risks from Russia, China, cybercrime, and terrorist groups.
"The Dutch intelligence service AIVD reports that Russia is preparing for a prolonged confrontation with the West," the report says.
AIVD Director Simone Smit noted that in the service's 80-year history, there has never been a situation where national security was under sustained pressure from so many directions at once. She described Russia's stance toward Europe as "an unpleasant fact."
She emphasized that the global order is becoming unstable and unpredictable after decades when stability and predictability underpinned prosperity and peace.
The report highlights that Russia has become more aggressive toward Western countries, including the Netherlands, particularly through cyberattacks. In 2025, attacks were recorded on accounts of Dutch officials and military personnel, along with espionage operations by hacker groups linked to Moscow targeting government and defense structures.
Special attention is also given to China. According to AIVD, Beijing has for years attempted to illegally access technologies and knowledge from Dutch companies and research institutions as part of a broader strategy to reshape the global order.
At the same time, terrorism remains the most consistent threat. The main source of risk comes from jihadist networks linked to Islamic State. Particular concern is raised by increasing radicalization among young people, which is increasingly happening online.
The report also notes the activity of anti-institutional extremists within the Netherlands, where law enforcement has discovered weapons, ammunition, and materials that could be used to produce dangerous substances.
Additionally, it highlights growing military cooperation between Russia and China, which are actively studying the experience of the war in Ukraine — something Dutch military intelligence MIVD believes may indicate preparation for future conflicts.
AIVD stresses that modern threats are complex and require sustained mobilization of resources to protect national and European security.
As reported, Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten said the country would not yield to Russian pressure regarding threats of "retaliatory measures" over joint drone-production projects with Ukraine and will continue strengthening support for Ukraine.
Photo: chris robert on Unsplash