Ankara:According to Anadolu Agency, the CIA has alerted several European governments about a potential Russian drone operation targeting Spain, France, or Italy. The warning, reported by Spanish newspaper El Mundo, suggests that Gerbera drones could be concealed aboard merchant ships and launched from the Mediterranean Sea.

The report indicates that Lithuania's Defense Ministry is aware of the drone type that might be utilized and that Spain, France, and Italy have been informed of the potential threat. Defense analysts reportedly have access to a detailed CIA report which has circulated among European governments.

Gerbera drones have a maximum range of 600 kilometers, depending on payload and conditions. If launched from 200-300 kilometers offshore, these drones could disrupt port or airport operations.

El Mundo connected the warning to CIA Director John Ratcliffe's visit to Moscow on August 25, during which he reportedly cautioned Russia against actions targeting NATO. However, the intelligence warning and alleged Russian plans have not been independently verified.