Poland's government has ordered the closure of the Russian consulate in the western city of Poznań, effective immediately, due to escalating security concerns linked to Russian intelligence operations and acts of sabotage. Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski announced this decision on October 22, 2024, in light of recent incidents that have intensified fears of destabilising actions orchestrated by Russian operatives within Polish borders.

The consulate's closure follows the arrest of Serhii S., who was apprehended for allegedly plotting an arson attack at a factory in Wrocław.

Serhii S., a 51-year-old Ukrainian citizen, was detained earlier this year for allegedly planning to set fire to a paint factory in Wrocław, strategically located near critical infrastructure. During interrogation, he confessed that Russian authorities had instructed him to carry out the act of arson.

The Wrocław District Court recently rejected a plea deal that would have sentenced Serhii S. to three years in prison, deeming the punishment excessively lenient. As a result, the prosecution will submit a new indictment, leading to a full trial involving witness testimonies and evidence examination.

The Polish authorities believe these actions are part of a broader strategy by Russian intelligence to destabilise European countries, utilising methods such as recruitment via Telegram to incite criminal acts."We have other similar incidents across Europe, and we are aware of Russian plans for additional arsons," said Sikorski at a press conference.

RIA cited Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, who described the decision as “another hostile step” and pledged a “painful” response.

Sikorski declared that the decision to shut down the consulate was not made lightly, but was necessary to protect Poland’s national interests. "We are witnessing a new wave of Russian tactics aimed at undermining our security and stability," he said during a press conference. The minister said that the closure serves as a preventative measure against the infiltration of Polish society by hostile elements associated with the Kremlin.

Western officials suspect that Russian-paid operatives are linked to a series of criminal activities across Europe. The incidents include break-ins and arson targeting factories and critical infrastructure, as well as an alleged plot to assassinate the CEO of Germany's largest arms firm.

“If we expel the ambassador, they (Russians) will of course do the same. This has not happened yet, but if acts of sabotage continue, it cannot be ruled out”, said Sikorski during an interview with TVP Info.

Poland has been on high alert regarding Russian espionage activities, which officials say have intensified since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began, but the closure of the consulate is a significant shift in the country’s diplomatic posture.