El Mundo reports that U.S. intelligence has warned several European governments that Russia may be preparing a drone operation against Spain, France or Italy.

According to the report, Russia could launch Gerbera drones from merchant ships in the Mediterranean, potentially hidden in containers.

The drones have a range of up to 600 km and carry relatively small explosive payloads, making them more suited to disrupting airports, ports or military facilities than causing large-scale destruction.

Lithuania, Spain, France and Italy were reportedly briefed after CIA Director John Ratcliffe visited Moscow on August 25, where he was said to have warned Russia against attacks or provocations targeting NATO.