"Operation Gladio" was a covert NATO initiative during the Cold War, aimed at countering potential Soviet invasions in Western Europe. It involved the establishment of secret "stay-behind" armies in various countries, including Italy, Belgium, and Germany, which were trained to conduct guerrilla warfare if needed. These groups operated without the knowledge of the public or many government officials. The operation came to light in the early 1990s, raising concerns about its implications for democracy and governance. Investigations revealed that some of these groups were involved in controversial activities, including terrorism and political manipulation, leading to debates about the ethical ramifications of such clandestine operations.