Blaise Metreveli, the newly appointed head of MI6, is set to address the growing threat posed by Russia in a speech today, highlighting the nation’s hybrid warfare tactics targeting critical infrastructure.

Metreveli, the first woman to lead Britain’s foreign intelligence service, is expected to describe Russia as “an expanding, previously hostile and aggressive, and a real and serious threat.” She will outline how Russian agents have employed cyberattacks and drone strikes against key systems, and call on Britain to support Ukraine while increasing pressure on President Vladimir Putin.

The speech will also focus on two companies in Russia and China recently sanctioned for conducting indiscriminate information warfare against the UK and its allies. Western sanctions have significantly constrained Russia’s economy, redirecting its exports toward China and India rather than Western markets.

Metreveli succeeded Sir Richard Moore as MI6 chief on 1 October, assuming leadership at a time of heightened geopolitical tension and complex cyber threats.