[nradov]

The US already has a policy to use kinetic means to retaliate against state sponsored terrorism. Whether that terrorism is carried out through "cyber" or other means is irrelevant. And the US did trigger Article 5 after the 9/11 attacks.

[topkai22]

Ok, the dam scenario is excessive (and kinetic already), but where that threshold crossed? If a string of on going attacks caused 10s of billions of damage but with no fatalities, would it crossed? What about incidental fatalities such as preventable deaths in a blackout?

Messaging and intentions aren’t clear in this domain yet, that’s the worry about unintentional escalation.

[nradov]

Intentions about military responses are intentionally unclear. Presidents want to preserve their freedom of action and keep their options open.