Video. ‘The European Union needs to use its strength,’ says MEP Riho Terras
MEP Riho Terras has called for a stronger European response to cyberattacks following a series of incidents affecting supermarkets and other essential services across the continent.
Terras argued that businesses must invest more in cybersecurity, warning that outdated computer systems and delayed upgrades can leave retailers exposed. Connected equipment is another potential weak point, particularly Internet of Things devices such as lighting systems, freezers and other appliances that may not receive adequate protection.
Recent attacks have demonstrated how digital breaches can cause physical disruption. Some incidents reportedly disabled supermarket refrigeration equipment, while healthcare-related infrastructure, including blood banks in France, has also been targeted.
Terras said critical transport infrastructure should be better protected because essential systems are expected to operate separately from the public internet. He also pointed to European cybersecurity rules designed to strengthen the resilience of vital networks and services.
Beyond technical safeguards, the MEP urged European institutions to identify those responsible when evidence indicates the involvement of foreign governments or state-backed groups. Once an attack has been attributed, he said the EU should draw on measures such as sanctions and diplomatic action.
“The European Union needs to use its strength,” Terras said, presenting coordinated political and economic pressure as an essential part of defending Europe’s digital infrastructure.
His comments come amid heightened concern over attacks against European companies and public services. French authorities have recently connected one such case to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, reinforcing calls for cyber incidents to be treated as security threats rather than isolated technical failures.
