Ex-MI6 Chief Backs National ID Cards and Warns of Russian Hybrid Threats

Former Chief of the Secret Intelligence Service, commonly known as MI6, Sir Alex Younger has warned that Russia is engaged in a form of warfare that the West has yet to fully recognise. His remarks came during an appearance before the Defence Committee in Parliament, where he outlined the nature of “grey-zone” threats posed by the Kremlin.

Sir Alex argued that Russia, under President Vladimir Putin, views its relationship with the UK and NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) as a conflict already underway, albeit fought not through traditional military means but through disinformation, cyber-attacks, energy sabotage, and espionage. He noted the vulnerability of critical UK infrastructure, including undersea cables and power networks, which he said are increasingly at risk from covert Russian operations.

“We are operating in a domain where they believe they are at war with us, while we do not perceive ourselves to be at war with them,” Sir Alex told MPs. He emphasised that the West’s rules-based, law-governed societies are being exploited by adversaries who do not play by the same rules and who can act with greater speed and fewer constraints.

From a centre-right perspective, these observations highlight the evolving nature of national security threats and the need for adaptive strategies to protect key sectors and infrastructure.

As the UK faces an increasingly complex security landscape, the former MI6 chief’s testimony will likely influence upcoming policy debates. His warnings about hybrid warfare reflect a growing consensus that national security must evolve, not only to deter open conflict but to disrupt the silent, subversive tactics already in play.

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