• Russian satellite Cosmos 2612 stalked ICEYE-X36 for weeks.
• Maneuvers came as close as 500 meters, sparking concerns over space security.
• This is the first observed uncoordinated rendezvous and proximity operation (RPO).
• Experts view Cosmos 2612's actions as a potential threat to Western satellites.

This incident may signal an escalation in Russian counterspace activities, which could pose a significant threat to Western satellites. The proximity operation suggests Russia is developing capabilities to inspect, characterize, or potentially interfere with other spacecraft, which could have implications for space security and stability.