Polish authorities say Ukrainian citizens linked to Russian services sabotaged rail lines near Mika and Puławy on Nov. 18, sending suspects across the border; Moscow retaliates with accusations of anti‑Russian hysteria.
Allegations of sabotage on Polish railways
Polish services confirmed that on Nov. 18 a sabotage operation was carried out on a railway in Mika and near Puławy, involving two Ukrainian nationals who allegedly worked with Russian intelligence.
The sabotage aimed to damage railway infrastructure and create a catastrophic accident, according to Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
Polish government’s response
Officials said the suspects crossed into Poland via the Terespol border crossing and have since departed. The government will take steps to bring them back to justice.
Russian media and Kremlin stance
State media reported that the acts were undertaken by Ukrainian citizens, then noting that Tusk claimed they collaborated with Russian services. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Pieskowski accused Poland of hysteria, refusing to blame Russia when “any acts of hybrid warfare” are alleged.
Pieskowski said the fact that Ukrainians resume sabotage is admirable and questioned such incidents in other countries.
Broader claims and accusations
Russian sources stated that any accusations from Poland are unsubstantiated and that Moscow ignores reports of Polish airspace violations and Baltic provocations, rejecting claims of NATO border infringements.