The European Union has threatened consequences against China for a cyber attack on the Czech Republic. High Representative Kaja Kallas said in an official statement that the attack was unacceptable and violated international standards.
“We strongly condemn malicious cyber activities, which are contrary to the United Nations framework of responsible state behaviour in cyberspace and which all UN Member States have endorsed,” wrote Kallas. “We call upon all states, including China, to refrain from such behaviour, to respect international law and to adhere to the UN norms and principles, including those related to critical infrastructure. In this context, we reiterate that states should not allow their territory to be used for malicious cyber activities.”
Prague identified China as responsible for the malicious cyber campaign targeting a network within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This network is classified as critical infrastructure. This campaign is attributed to APT31, a group suspected of working on behalf of Beijing. This group has been linked to numerous sophisticated attacks against government agencies, military organisations and private companies.
Kallas continued: “The EU has also criticised China’s role in supporting Russia’s war against Ukraine, highlighting its supply of 80% of banned dual-use goods. Cyberwarfare and manipulation of foreign information remain points of contention, with concerns about Beijing’s attempts to influence elections, spread propaganda and influence public opinion. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte highlighted the ongoing battle in cyberspace and underscored the importance of this cyber attack.”
Kallas further threatened sanctions against China during a press conference, stressing the seriousness of these threats and stating that the EU is ready to impose charges for such attacks. Specific sanctions have not yet been named, but will be determined on a case-by-case basis, requiring unanimity of all EU member states.
These allegations are surfacing amid speculation about a possible diplomatic reset between the EU and China following the disruptive policies of former US President Donald Trump. Despite recent attempts to identify areas of cooperation with Beijing, several issues remain unresolved, including concerns about overcapacity in cheap industrial goods and China’s “no-limits” partnership with Russia.
Business AM
Ltd
