Two Ukrainian nationals have been arrested in Poland on suspicion of espionage and sabotage on behalf of Russian intelligence services. The arrests were announced by Tomasz Siemoniak, the minister responsible for coordinating Poland’s intelligence services, IPN reports.
According to Poland’s Internal Security Agency, the two suspects, aged 24 and 25, allegedly photographed critical infrastructure and military facilities and set fire to vehicles. They are also alleged to have replaced the license plates on several cars with plates resembling those used by the Ukrainian military, in an effort to cast suspicion on Ukraine and spread disinformation.
The two have been remanded in custody for three months. If found guilty, they face sentences ranging from 10 years to life in prison.
Since the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Warsaw has repeatedly accused Moscow of orchestrating acts of sabotage. Last week, Polish authorities announced that six people—five Polish citizens and one Russian national—are under investigation for illegally supplying Russia with components used to manufacture ammunition and weapons. Against this backdrop, Tomasz Siemoniak said that nearly 100 people have been charged with espionage and sabotage since 2024. The Kremlin has denied allegations of Russian involvement in such activities on the territory of NATO member states.
