Poland Shuts Last Russian Consulate Amid Railway Sabotage Claims

URGENT UPDATE: Poland has announced the imminent closure of its last Russian consulate in Gdansk following a shocking railway sabotage incident. Authorities suspect two Ukrainian citizens, allegedly linked to Russian intelligence, were responsible for the explosion that targeted a critical railway line connecting Warsaw to Ukraine.

In a decisive statement made on October 25, 2023, Poland’s Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski confirmed the closure, stating it was a direct response to Russia’s hostile actions. “I have decided to withdraw consent for the operation of the last Russian consulate in Gdansk,” Sikorski said, emphasizing that formal notification would be sent to Russia within hours.

The closure will leave Russia with only its embassy in Warsaw, marking a significant diplomatic shift. Prime Minister Donald Tusk described the railway explosion as an “unprecedented act of sabotage,” highlighting the ongoing threats from Russian operatives within Europe.

The two Ukrainian suspects, who have not been publicly identified due to the ongoing investigation, have reportedly fled Poland and crossed into Belarus. Tusk revealed to the Polish parliament that these individuals had been collaborating closely with Russian secret services for an extended period.

This incident underscores the escalating tensions between Poland and Russia following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine more than three years ago. Western officials have consistently accused Russia of orchestrating attacks across Europe to undermine Ukrainian support and create divisions within European societies.

The Associated Press reports that this latest development further isolates Russia diplomatically as tensions continue to rise. As the situation unfolds, observers will closely monitor Poland’s next steps and Russia’s potential retaliation.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.