The resurgence of great power competition has intensified Chinese and Russian espionage activities in Europe, posing significant threats to security and stability. In the latest BSR Policy Briefing 1/2026, Senior Researcher Hanna Mäkinen (Pan-European Institute, University of Turku) examines how these two states use intelligence activities to advance their geopolitical and technological objectives, and what implications this has for European security.
Great power competition intensifies espionage in Europe
According to the report, the intelligence activities of both China and Russia are closely linked to the changing global order and increasing geopolitical rivalry. Espionage efforts are particularly directed at critical infrastructure, democratic institutions and strategically important technologies that underpin economic and military power.
China’s long-term strategy focuses on technological dominance
China’s intelligence activities are driven by a long-term, technology-oriented strategy. The briefing shows how China seeks technological self-sufficiency and global competitiveness by combining legal channels, such as research cooperation and business partnerships, with covert methods including human intelligence and cyber espionage. Key targets include semiconductors, artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies.
Russia’s intelligence operations driven by war and sanctions evasion
Russia’s approach to espionage is described as politically driven and opportunistic. The war against Ukraine and Western sanctions have increased Russia’s reliance on covert intelligence, cyber operations and hybrid influence activities to acquire resources, bypass restrictions and destabilise European societies.
Cyber operations and influence campaigns play a central role
Both China and Russia employ a mix of traditional human intelligence (HUMINT), sophisticated cyber operations, economic coercion and influence campaigns. The report highlights that cyber-enabled espionage and information influence allow for long-term and hard-to-detect interference, undermining trust in democratic systems and societal resilience.
Growing implications for European security and resilience
In its conclusions, the policy briefing calls for a comprehensive European response. Strengthening cybersecurity and counterintelligence, securing supply chains, preventing sanctions evasion and enhancing international cooperation and information sharing are identified as key priorities. Improving public awareness and media literacy is also essential to counter foreign influence and build resilience.
Read the issue here: BSR Policy Briefing 1/2026: Pursuing technological supremacy and geopolitical power – Chinese and Russian espionage in Europe
