Ukraine Shares Cyber Defense Experience in War at European Parliament Hearings

On January 29, the European Parliament held public hearings on “Cybersecurity and Cyber Defense”, organized by the Committee on Security and Defense together with the Committee on Industry, Research, and Energy.

The event focused on the interaction between civilian and military cybersecurity ecosystems, the role of dual-use technologies, and public-private partnerships in strengthening the resilience of Europe and Ukraine.

Natalia Tkachuk, Head of the Information Security and Cyber Defense Department of the NSDC Office and Secretary of the National Cybersecurity Coordination Center, represented Ukraine. She briefed EU institutions on current trends in cyber threats and Ukraine’s practical experience in countering cyberattacks.

Over the past years, Ukraine has systematically strengthened its national cyber defense and cybersecurity capabilities, ensuring effective coordination across the public sector and mobilizing experts and volunteer communities for cyber defense tasks in wartime conditions.

In 2025 alone, Ukraine recorded nearly 6,000 cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure, government, and military systems—a 37% increase compared to 2024. Despite this surge, most attacks caused no significant damage due to strengthened defenses and practical response experience.

Natalia Tkachuk highlighted the changing nature of Russian cyber operations, including a shift toward destructive attacks against EU member states. For example, in December 2025, russian state-affiliated hackers launched a cyberattack on Poland’s energy infrastructure, aiming to disrupt systems and cause real damage.

“These actions demonstrate that russian cyber aggression is a shared challenge for Ukraine and Europe, requiring a stronger collective response. russia conducts open cyber aggression not only against Ukraine but also against EU states. This is no longer isolated incidents but a growing destructive trend. Europe needs not only cyber resilience but also proactive, collective cyber defense capable of deterring the aggressor and inflicting tangible losses in cyberspace. Ukraine is ready to share practical experience and strengthen the joint cybersecurity architecture, as our country has gained unique experience in real wartime conditions,” emphasized Natalia Tkachuk.

Ukraine stressed the importance of enhanced cooperation with the EU through cyber intelligence sharing, joint exercises, and operational coordination mechanisms.

The Ukrainian side expressed gratitude for the EU’s support in developing cyber capabilities and highlighted its readiness to deepen cooperation, urging Europe to view Ukraine not just as a recipient of assistance, but as a security partner and provider of practical capabilities to strengthen EU cyber resilience.