Newly appointed Minister for Defence Helen McEntee has been briefed about increased hybrid activity. Photograph: EPAHybrid threats are expected to increase in Europe over the coming years, including during Ireland’s EU presidency, Department of Defence officials have warned. “This focus is very relevant to the escalation in hybrid activity within member states,” officials said. “While the net increase is positive, the rate of increase is not sufficient to reach current establishment within any realistic time frame,” the notes read. “Assuming that net recruitment is increased substantially further (from net increase of 140 per year to 400 net per year) current establishment will be achieved in five years approximately, by 2031.”

Source: The Irish Times December 18, 2025 11:57 UTC