**Russian Intelligence Accused of Poland Arson Attacks**
A 27-year-old Colombian national has been accused by Poland’s Internal Security Agency (ABW) of carrying out two arson attacks in Polish cities on behalf of Russian intelligence. The suspect, who has not been named, allegedly set fire to construction warehouses in Warsaw and Radom, a city south of the capital.
According to ABW spokesperson Jacek Dobrzynski, the man received detailed instructions from a handler linked to Russian intelligence, including how to construct Molotov cocktails. He was also taught how to document these attacks and carry them out under instruction. The suspect has been charged with terrorism and faces a life sentence.
**Russian Hybrid Operations Escalate Across Europe**
This news comes amid mounting warnings by Western officials of Russia’s escalating hybrid operations and sabotage across Europe. In recent months, there have been nearly 100 suspected incidents of Russian sabotage, cyberattacks, and espionage in Europe alone. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk previously accused Russia of being behind a May arson attack on Warsaw’s Marywilska shopping center.
In Lithuania, authorities believe Russia recruited two Ukrainian citizens, including a minor, to carry out an arson attack on an IKEA warehouse in Vilnius. Western intelligence services have warned of the growing threat posed by Russian hybrid operations.
**Russian Intelligence Recruitment of Latin Americans**
ABW officers say Russia has been actively recruiting Latin Americans with military experience to conduct sabotage operations across Europe. Recruits are contacted primarily via the Telegram messenger app and tasked with setting fires, conducting reconnaissance, and documenting damage.
The suspect in this case reportedly admitted partial guilt and his testimony is under verification. Moscow has denied involvement or refused to comment on the allegations.
**Commentary**
This development highlights the growing sophistication of Russian hybrid operations across Europe. Russia’s use of Latin American recruits with military experience raises concerns about the potential for more complex and coordinated attacks in the future.
The fact that this suspect was able to travel from Poland to the Czech Republic without being detected suggests a level of planning and coordination that is reminiscent of previous Russian intelligence operations.
As Western officials continue to sound the alarm on Russia’s escalating hybrid operations, it is clear that countries across Europe must remain vigilant and cooperate closely to counter these threats.
**Sources**
* RMF24
* The Kyiv Independent
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
