Cyber Warfare, Killer Drones and Nuclear Risk with Chris Kubecka

What happens when cyber warfare moves beyond screens and takes down the systems people need to survive? Cyber warfare specialist Chris Kubecka joins Francis Gorman to recount her escape from Kyiv as Russia’s invasion began, while cyber attacks disrupted banks, communications and border systems. From the vulnerability of nuclear infrastructure to the rise of drone warfare and autonomous weapons, Chris explores how digital attacks collide with physical threats. They discuss AI-generated disinformation, fibre-optic drones, Russia’s hybrid warfare tactics and the risks of trusting military AI without reliable data and human oversight. The conversation closes with practical lessons in emergency preparedness: cash, paper maps, alternative communications and preparing for the loss of services we take for granted. A firsthand perspective on cyber security, modern warfare and the human consequences of technological disruption. **SOUNDBYTES** “You want to hear a friendly voice and you're going through hell when you can't.” “They want to soften up the civilian population by psychologically harassing them with drone incidents.” “So we're relying on killing people and hoping that the military's Chat GPT has been updated to its newest model.” “Don't always expect an internet connection. Don't always expect that your GPS is going to work.” **KEY TAKEAWAYS** • Cyber warfare has immediate human consequences. Disrupted banking, communications and identity systems can make escaping a conflict more difficult. • Nuclear infrastructure threats extend beyond physical damage. Disruption, uncertainty and fear can themselves become instruments of warfare. • Drone warfare is changing rapidly, from fibre-optic control to autonomous systems and the growing overlap between cyber and physical operations. • AI-generated disinformation can obscure real military capabilities, making authentic evidence harder to identify and assess. • Military AI demands reliable data and human oversight. Automated decisions require scrutiny, particularly when lives are at stake. • Emergency preparedness starts with simple backups. Paper maps, available cash, water supplies, warmth and alternative communications can help when digital services fail. Link to the article Chris published on substack below: # Preparing for Drone Warfare in Europe Basic Preparation Before Flying Death Machines Hunt You Down https://secevangelism.substack.com/p/preparing-for-drone-warfare-in-europe