it.euronews.com
Increased GPS Interference in Europe Linked to Russia
The European Union is experiencing a surge in GPS interference incidents near the Baltic and Black Seas, particularly impacting airports and strategic infrastructure, with suspicions pointing towards Russia.
- What is the extent and impact of the recent surge in GPS interference incidents affecting EU airspace and infrastructure?
- Since February 2022, the EU has seen a considerable increase in GNSS disruptions, with recent incidents in Bulgaria and across Eastern Europe affecting aircraft and ships. In June 2025, Lithuania recorded over 1000 cases—22 times more than in June 2024; Estonia reported 85% of flights affected; and Poland saw 2732 cases in January 2025.
- What are the suspected sources and methods behind these GPS interference incidents, and what types of interference are involved?
- Authorities suspect Russian interference, citing bases in Kaliningrad and along Russia's borders. Two types of interference are noted: jamming, creating radio noise to block signals, and spoofing, which inserts false signals to mislead navigation systems. These are considered hybrid warfare tactics.
- What measures are being taken by the EU and NATO to address this growing threat, and what are the potential long-term implications?
- The EU plans to increase low-earth orbit satellites to better detect interference. NATO is also working to counter Russian interference in civilian flights. The long-term implications include potential disruptions to critical infrastructure and increased security concerns, particularly in adverse weather conditions where backup systems are less precise.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a clear picture of increasing GPS interference incidents in Eastern Europe, particularly near strategic infrastructure. The narrative focuses on the potential Russian involvement, highlighting statements from EU officials and experts. While it mentions alternative navigation methods and downplays the severity in most cases, the overall framing emphasizes the threat posed by these interferences. The use of specific incidents, like the one involving Ursula von der Leyen's plane, strengthens this framing. However, it lacks a counter-perspective from Russia, which could be seen as a framing bias.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral, focusing on factual reporting. Terms like "interference," "disturbances," and "spoofing" are used objectively. However, phrases like "hybrid warfare" and associating the incidents with Russia without definitive proof could be considered slightly loaded. The use of words like 'molestare' and 'intimidare' (harass and intimidate) in relation to Russia's actions also adds a negative connotation. More neutral alternatives might be to describe the incidents as 'disruptions' and 'deceptive signals' instead of using loaded terms.
Bias by Omission
The article primarily focuses on the EU perspective, citing sources and officials from EU member states. While it mentions experts' opinions, it lacks a significant counter-narrative from Russia or other potential actors. This omission might leave the reader with an incomplete understanding of the situation, potentially leading to a biased perception of the events. The article also omits any discussion of the potential economic or political motivations behind these alleged interferences.
False Dichotomy
The article doesn't explicitly present false dichotomies, but the focus on Russian involvement could implicitly create a simplified narrative. It suggests that the incidents are primarily due to Russian actions, possibly neglecting other potential causes, such as natural interference or actions by other actors. This simplification could overshadow the complex geopolitical context and technical aspects of the problem.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the increase in GPS interference incidents, particularly around strategic infrastructure and airports in Eastern Europe. These interferences, suspected to be of Russian origin, disrupt essential navigation systems, impacting safety and potentially escalating tensions. This constitutes a threat to regional stability and international peace and security, thus directly affecting SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) which promotes peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, providing access to justice for all and building effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.