Contemporary Sabotage Operations

State-led sabotage remains a key tool of influence, mirroring Cold War doctrines despite shifting justifications. Malte Koppermann essay argues that while ideological motives have faded, the core objective—disrupting adversaries’ policies and capabilities—remains unchanged. Both the U.S. and Russia continue to use proxies, uphold plausible deniability, and adapt to new technologies, including cyber sabotage. The recent rise in Russian sabotage underscores its ongoing relevance in geopolitical competition.