Title: No Indications Spain, Portugal Blackout a Cyberattack: EU’s Costa
A massive power outage has affected Spain and Portugal, leaving millions of people without electricity. The European Union’s Council President, Antonio Costa, has assured that there are “no indications of any cyberattack at this point” behind the blackout.
The power outage began on Wednesday evening, with reports of widespread disruptions in both countries. Spain’s National Grid operator, Red Eléctrica de España (REE), confirmed that the power supply had been affected, while Portugal’s National Grid operator, REN, also reported a significant blackout.
In a statement, Costa emphasized that the EU is keeping a close eye on the situation, stating, “Grid operators in both countries are working on finding the cause and restoring the electricity supply. I am in touch with Spanish President Pedro Sánchez and Portuguese PM Luís Montenegro, and we are providing all necessary support to help resolve this situation as quickly as possible.”
Costa’s statement came as a relief to many, as the initial reports of a massive power outage sparked concerns about a potential cyberattack. The European Union has been on high alert for cyber threats in recent years, with several high-profile attacks on critical infrastructure and institutions.
However, Costa’s statement suggests that the EU has no evidence to suggest that a cyberattack is responsible for the blackout. Instead, it appears that the cause may be related to the grid itself, with the operators working to identify the issue and restore power.
The blackout has caused significant disruptions in both countries, with many people forced to spend the night without electricity. The situation has also raised concerns about the potential impact on critical infrastructure, such as hospitals and emergency services.
Despite the disruption, Costa’s statement has provided a sense of reassurance, suggesting that the EU is taking the situation seriously and working to support Spain and Portugal in resolving the issue.
The power outage is the latest in a series of significant disruptions to critical infrastructure in Europe. In recent years, the continent has seen a number of high-profile cyberattacks, including a major attack on the European Parliament’s computer systems.
The EU has been working to strengthen its cyber defenses, with a focus on protecting critical infrastructure and institutions from cyber threats. However, the power outage in Spain and Portugal serves as a reminder that even the most robust defenses can be breached, and that vigilance is essential to preventing and responding to cyber attacks.
In the meantime, the EU will continue to monitor the situation and provide support to Spain and Portugal as they work to resolve the blackout. Costa’s statement has provided a sense of reassurance, but the situation remains a serious one, and it is essential that the EU and its member states remain vigilant in the face of potential cyber threats.
Source: https://x.com/eucopresident/status/1916859055546544517
