Kathrine Frich
As tensions with Moscow continue to shape Europe’s security debate, attention is increasingly turning to vulnerabilities closer to home.
While focus often falls on NATO’s eastern flank, some analysts warn that danger may lie where it is least expected.
Recent comments highlighted by British media have placed one European country uncomfortably in the spotlight.
Stark warning
Ireland is the weakest country in Europe when it comes to security, defence and intelligence, according to Senator and former Irish Army captain Tom Clonan.
He told British media that Dublin lacks both modern threat-detection systems and adequate military capabilities.
“This leaves the country completely vulnerable and weak,” Clonan said, arguing that Ireland is ill-prepared to respond to modern security threats.
The comments were reported by The Telegraph, which examined Ireland’s ability to deter or detect hostile actions linked to Russia.
Exposed geography
The Telegraph reported that, in a worst-case scenario, Russian submarines could launch missiles toward Europe or even deploy a landing force on Ireland’s western coast, including County Clare.
Experts cited in the report said the most immediate risk lies beneath the sea.
Around three-quarters of critical transatlantic communications cables are routed through or near Irish waters, alongside key gas pipelines.
In November 2024, the Russian intelligence vessel “Yantar” was spotted near undersea cables used by Microsoft and Google, both of which have European headquarters in Ireland, The Telegraph noted.
Blind spots at sea
Ireland’s limited surveillance capability is a major concern. According to the report, Dublin lacks modern radar and sonar systems, meaning potential Russian activity is often detected only when allies raise the alarm.
“Because Ireland does not have modern radar or sonar systems, Dublin only learns about Russian activities in the ‘gray zone’ when it is reported by allies, especially Britain,” the article said.
A December 2023 incident underscored the issue, when a British warship and helicopter were required to track and deter a Russian submarine near Cork Harbour.
Unanswered questions
The Telegraph also recalled an incident on December 3 involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Dublin.
His plane landed earlier than scheduled, a detail the report suggested may have been crucial.
Five drones were later detected along the flight path, which Irish officials said were intended primarily to cause disruption.
Despite the seriousness of the episode, the report noted that Dublin held no press conferences, launched no public inquiry and announced no review of defence policy in its aftermath.
Sources: The Telegraph, LA.lv
