**Polish Prime Minister Tusk Accuses Russia of Ordering Arson Attack on Warsaw Shopping Centre**
On May 11, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk made a shocking statement on the social media platform X. He claimed that Russian intelligence services had ordered an arson attack on the Marywilska shopping centre in Warsaw, which took place on May 12, 2024.
According to Tusk, some of the perpetrators have already been detained, while others are being searched for. The Polish Justice Minister and Interior Minister also released a statement, confirming that they have in-depth knowledge of the order and course of the arson attack. They alleged that the actions were organized and directed by an identified person staying in the Russian Federation.
**A Pattern of Sabotage?**
The attack on the Marywilska shopping centre is not an isolated incident. Western intelligence officials have warned about increasing Russian sabotage operations across Europe. Arson attacks have previously targeted other EU countries, raising suspicions of a coordinated Russian effort to destabilize the countries that support Ukraine against Russian aggression.
Lithuanian authorities had already suspected Russia’s intelligence services of orchestrating arson attacks on an IKEA warehouse in Vilnius and had linked them to the Warsaw shopping centre attack. The attack on the Ikea warehouse caused an estimated 500,000 euros ($545,000) in damage.
**Cooperation Between Poland and Lithuania**
Polish authorities are cooperating with Lithuanian officials, who have been investigating similar sabotage attacks on their own soil. This cooperation is a significant development, as it suggests that European countries are working together to counter Russian aggression.
**A Growing Concern**
The attack on the Marywilska shopping centre is a stark reminder of the growing concern about Russian hybrid threats in Europe. Dutch military intelligence agency MIVD has reported an increase in Russian sabotage operations aimed at European allies. The report stated that Russia’s threat against Europe is increasing, including after a possible end of the war against Ukraine.
As the world grapples with the consequences of Russian aggression, it is essential to take these allegations seriously and work together to prevent similar attacks from happening again.
**What’s Next?**
The investigation into the Marywilska shopping centre attack is ongoing. Polish authorities are working to bring those responsible to justice. However, this incident highlights the need for increased vigilance and cooperation between European countries to counter Russian hybrid threats.
As Prime Minister Tusk said, “We will get you all!” The international community must stand united in the face of Russian aggression and work together to ensure that such attacks never happen again.
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