Russian Offensive War - Ukraine allegedly thwarts attacks in Poland and the Baltics
The Ukrainian security service SBU has thwarted arson attacks on shopping malls, gas stations, pharmacies, and markets in Poland and the Baltic countries, as well as in its own country. A group of 19 people were arrested in total during 37 raids in four regions of the country, the service in Kiev announced. Forged documents such as passports, driver's licenses, and diplomas were reportedly prepared for the attacks in EU countries.
Russian-backed attacks?
The police confirmed the arrests. The group's leader was reportedly arrested in the western Ukrainian region of Ivano-Frankivsk. The acts were allegedly committed on behalf of the Russian side by Ukrainian citizens, in order to discredit Ukraine and its citizens before the international community.
The suspects were said to have filmed the fires and then sent videos to the Russian domestic intelligence service FSB. The arrested individuals now face not only document forgery charges, but also treason charges, which could result in a life sentence. The accuracy of the law enforcement agencies' statements could not be verified independently.
Ukraine arrests opponents regularly
Ukraine has been defending itself with Western help for over two years against a Russian invasion. In the country, martial law is in effect. Ukrainian authorities regularly arrest alleged collaborators with the Russian adversary. The FSB also regularly reports that attacks on Russian territory are being prepared or carried out on behalf of Ukrainian intelligence services. It is regularly reported that crimes have been prevented and suspects have been arrested.
- The European Union (EU) expressed concern over the reported preparation of forged documents for potential attacks in Poland and other Baltic countries, allegedly by a group linked to the Russian Federation's Federal Security Service (FSB).
- The Federal Security Service of Russia is claimed to have received videos of alleged arson attacks in Ukraine from the arrested individuals, suggesting possible involvement of the Russian secret service in these incidents.
- The Polish government has expressed support for Ukraine's efforts to combat what they view as escalating Russian-backed activities, including the recent threats against Polish and Baltic targets, which were allegedly orchestrated by Ukrainian citizens on behalf of the Russian Federation.
