Fear of being tapped by Russia, European Union builds anti-spy bunker

BRUSSELS – European Union (EU) is building a $121 billion secure bunker in Brussels so the bloc’s leaders can discuss secrets without being bugged Russia or other countries. The EUobserver report cites an EU memo describing the project.

According to the EUobserver, the bunker can accommodate around 100 people – up to 34 leaders and their 34 minutes, as well as protocol, technical and catering staff.

As is known EU has 27 member states, but could expand in the future, and the bunker will also be used for low-level meetings by ambassadors and senior EU officials.

The room is offline but equipped with built-in widescreen conferencing technology and an equally secure booth-mounted microphone for 30 interpreters.

And both meeting rooms and booths will be enclosed in NATO certified isolation cages to reduce the risk of exploiting harmful emanations – electro-magnetic and radio waves generated by IT screens and cables, which can be intercepted remotely.

Anyone who enters, even if they are a cleaner, must have an “EU SECRET” security clearance and a “need-to-know” reason for being there.

EU SECRET is the second highest tier of classification on the block.

Also read: Top diplomat: EU doesn’t want war with Russia

This includes information that could be very detrimental to the interests of the European Union if it exits. A leak could increase international tensions or threaten life or public order in Europe, according to EU security guidelines.

In addition, EU leaders and staff must leave their cell phones, laptops, smartwatches, electronic keys and even hearing aids in soundproof lockers outside.

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