Sikorski Warns of Russian Provocations: “We Have Credible Intelligence”

During a joint press conference with his French counterpart on Thursday, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski warned that Russia is actively planning new provocations, echoing pre-invasion intelligence strategies.

The Threat of Russian Hybrid Warfare

Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot addressed concerns regarding Russian aggression against NATO members. Sikorski stated that while ministers typically do not comment on intelligence reports, it is no secret that Russia is waging hybrid and kinetic warfare against both Poland and France.

Sikorski detailed the hostile activities, noting that Moscow is targeting political systems and critical infrastructure, utilizing shadow fleet vessels for mapping, and employing sabotage, arson, and drone attacks. He further alleged that the Russian state sends death squads to target Vladimir Putin’s enemies, activities in which Poland does not engage.

Preventing Provocations Through Intelligence

Referencing the period before the invasion of Ukraine, Sikorski recalled how U.S. intelligence warnings of false-flag operations successfully deterred Russia from executing certain provocations. He urged the public to trust that current intelligence from multiple nations suggests Russia is again planning similar hostile actions, with these public warnings intended to deter such moves.

A Unified Strategic Response

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot confirmed that Poland and France have been targets of Russian aggression for four years. He noted that as Vladimir Putin faces increased difficulty on the front lines, the frequency and intensity of these provocations rise.

In response, the ministers affirmed that Poland and France will maintain their strategy of keeping a cool head, exerting pressure on Russia, and continuing to provide comprehensive financial and military support to Ukraine.