**Russia Accused of Orchestrating Arson Attacks Across EU**
In a shocking revelation, Polish prosecutors have charged two Ukrainian nationals with involvement in a suspected Russian operation to orchestrate a series of arson attacks across the European Union. The investigation suggests that these attacks were part of a broader campaign by Russian intelligence services to spread fear and destabilize EU societies.
According to official statements from May 12, the Ukrainian citizens, identified as Daniil B. and Oleksandr V., were involved in an organized criminal group acting on behalf of Russia’s intelligence services. The group is accused of carrying out acts of sabotage by setting fire to large commercial facilities across the EU, including a shopping center in Warsaw and an IKEA store in Vilnius, Lithuania.
**Russia’s History of Using Minors for Sabotage**
The investigation reveals that one of the suspects, Daniil B., was born in 2006, which is consistent with Russia’s history of recruiting minors and young people for sabotage attacks in Ukraine and abroad. This tactic has been used by Russia to carry out covert operations without leaving a clear trail.
**Terrorism and Espionage Charges**
Both Daniil B. and Oleksandr V. face charges related to terrorism and espionage, which carries a penalty of no less than 10 years in prison and may result in a life sentence. The investigation indicates that Oleksandr V. documented the Warsaw fire on May 12, 2024, and sent the footage to be used in Russian propaganda.
**Joint Investigation Team**
The crime is being investigated jointly by Polish and Lithuanian authorities through a Joint Investigation Team (JIT). No individuals have been charged with directly starting the fire at Marywilska Mall, but the investigation continues, with authorities probing related incidents, including a separate arson attack attributed to a Belarusian national acting for Russian intelligence services.
**Poland Revokes Russia’s Consulate Permission**
In response to these revelations, Poland revoked permission for Russia to operate a consulate in Krakow over evidence about Russian involvement in the 2024 arson attack in Warsaw. This move reflects the EU’s growing concerns about Russian activities and its efforts to maintain stability within the region.
**Ukraine’s Silence on the Matter**
The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has not responded to The Kyiv Independent’s request for comment regarding the suspects, which may indicate a lack of clarity or cooperation from Ukraine on this matter. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact Ukraine-Russia relations and the broader EU landscape.
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