Poland has successfully stopped a sabotage operation organized by Russia and Belarus, according to Deputy Prime Minister Krzysztof Gawkowski. This operation aimed to destabilize Poland, a country that has been a crucial supporter of Ukraine by providing military aid.
A Coordinated Attack
Gawkowski explained that saboteurs from Belarus, working closely with Russia, managed to infiltrate various levels of Polish government, including central and local institutions, as well as state-owned companies involved in military contracts. The goal of these attackers was clear: to gather sensitive information, blackmail individuals and institutions, and wage a cyberwar against Poland.
Increasing Cyber Threats
The Deputy Prime Minister, who also serves as the Minister for Digital Affairs, emphasized that the main objective of this operation was to steal data for blackmail. However, thanks to the efforts of Polish security services, this goal was thwarted.
Gawkowski highlighted a worrying trend: cyberattacks against Poland have doubled in the past year. These attacks have targeted a wide range of Polish organizations and institutions, especially logistics companies involved in transporting military supplies to Ukraine. He mentioned that Poland often faces over a thousand cyber incidents in a single day, demonstrating the constant threat in cyberspace.
Ongoing Threats from Russia
Poland has also linked Russia to several incidents of sabotage and arson on its soil. The country believes that Russian secret services are actively gathering information about weapons deliveries to Ukraine, especially after Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
Gawkowski’s statements reflect the ongoing tensions in the region and highlight the significant cyber and physical threats Poland faces due to its support for Ukraine. Despite these challenges, Poland’s security services remain vigilant in protecting the country from external threats.