"Shtorm" plunges us into a gripping narrative, fueled by a cocktail of artificial intelligence, hypersonic weapons, disinformation campaigns, cybercrime, and the specter of mutually assured destruction. The plot, set against a backdrop of rancor, hatred, envy, egos, and ambitions, unfolds amidst a relentless cat-and-mouse game between European capitals and remote terrorist camps.
The novel offers a chilling portrayal of a hybrid war, complete with bombings, assassinations, missile attacks, and a relentless offensive by spies and intelligence specialists operating within renowned European and global information agencies. The narrative is fast-paced, dramatic, and accessible, with precise terminology that avoids unnecessary jargon. The author's argument is both timely and alarming.
In a December 2021 article, Spanish journalist Ricardo Angoso raised a crucial question: "Is there a risk of a war between Russia and Ukraine?" His answer was a sobering one: "It is clear that there is, but whoever ignites this conflict will jeopardize the stability and security of the European continent for years to come, ushering in a new cold war with unpredictable consequences for all."
A systematic understanding of the dynamics driving this situation is essential to assess probabilities, possibilities, and potential solutions. By gaining a clearer perspective, we can hope that in 2024, Europe and the world will be a more harmonious place, free from the global survival challenges depicted in "Shtorm."