Jamie Spencer
Poland has announced plans to close the Russian consulate in Kraków after authorities in Warsaw found evidence suggesting that Russia’s intelligence services were behind a massive fire that destroyed a shopping centre in the Polish capital last year. The fire, which occurred in May, led to extensive damage to approximately 1,400 shops and service outlets.
Poland Takes Action Against Russian Sabotage
Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski made the announcement on X, stating: “Due to evidence that the Russian special services committed a reprehensible act of sabotage against the shopping centre on Marywilska Street, I have decided to withdraw my consent to the operation of the consulate of the Russian Federation in Kraków.” Sikorski also hinted at further action should similar incidents occur again, emphasizing Poland’s commitment to addressing threats to its security.
Arson Attack Linked to Russian Intelligence
Authorities in Poland believe that the fire was a result of a targeted arson attack orchestrated by Russian intelligence services. Polish and other European intelligence agencies have linked Russia to a series of sabotage operations across Europe, with some of the targets related to the ongoing war in Ukraine. However, many attacks have been aimed at random civilian infrastructure, contributing to widespread fear and instability. The fire in Warsaw was the latest in a series of similar incidents across Europe, including arson attacks in Lithuania and the UK.
Investigation and Arrests
The investigation into the fire involved significant resources, with 55 prosecutors and 100 police officers working for four months to gather evidence. According to Polish authorities, the fire was orchestrated by a person based in Russia, though the name of the individual was not disclosed. Some suspects have already been apprehended, while others remain at large.
Intelligence Agencies’ Assessment
Intelligence services believe the sabotage campaign is being directed by Russian intelligence officers based in Moscow but carried out by freelancers and one-time recruits on the ground. These individuals, often refugees from Ukraine or Belarus, may or may not be aware that they are working for Russian intelligence. The objective behind these attacks appears to be the creation of insecurity and confusion within society, rather than the destruction of significant infrastructure.
Russian Diplomatic Presence in Poland
Poland’s diplomatic relationship with Russia has been strained in recent years, with multiple expulsions of Russian diplomats. In October, Poland shut down the Russian consulate in Poznań, leading to a reciprocal closure of the Polish consulate in St. Petersburg. The Russian consulate in Kraków will now also be closed, and the diplomats stationed there have been given 30 days to leave Poland.
Russian Response and Tensions
The Russian government has condemned Poland’s actions, with Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova accusing Warsaw of deliberately undermining relations and acting against the interests of its citizens. Zakharova promised an “adequate response” to the closure of the consulate, escalating tensions between the two nations.
