Poland Investigates Railway Blast as Sabotage Linked to Russia

A railway explosion in Poland has been classified as an “unprecedented act of sabotage,” according to Prime Minister Donald Tusk. The incident occurred on March 10, 2024, on a vital rail line used for deliveries to Ukraine, specifically between Warsaw and Lublin. Polish authorities are investigating possible connections to Russia, Belarus, or their proxies.

During a visit to the site of the blast, Tusk emphasized the importance of the railway for providing support to Ukraine. Officials confirmed that an explosive device was detonated on the tracks near the village of Mika, approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) southeast of the capital. They also noted damage to overhead electrical cables, further indicating potential sabotage.

The investigation is ongoing, with Polish security sources indicating a high likelihood that foreign services orchestrated the attack. Tomasz Siemoniak, Poland’s security services minister, stated, “The likelihood that the two incidents on the railway line happened on the order of foreign services is very high.” This statement reflects concerns that the goal of such acts is to undermine support for Ukraine and create division within European societies.

Around 07:40 a.m. on March 10, a train driver reported issues with the track. Subsequent inspections confirmed the presence of explosive damage. Polish Interior Minister Marcin Kierwiński stated, “We can say beyond any doubt that an explosive device was detonated, damaging the railway tracks.” Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the two passengers and several staff members on the train at the time.

To ensure safety, the Polish army announced plans to examine 120 kilometers (about 75 miles) of the Warsaw-Lublin-Hrubieszów line, which facilitates rail and road connections to Ukraine. Another train travelling the Świnoujście-Rzeszów route was halted later that evening at Puławy due to damaged overhead power lines, affecting 475 passengers. Although broken windows were reported, no injuries occurred.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte confirmed that the alliance is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining communication with Polish officials. Following the incident, Finnish President Alexander Stubb highlighted the need for European nations to maintain composure and avoid overreacting to perceived threats from Russia. He referred to the current state of affairs as “the new normal,” emphasizing that Russia aims to destabilize societies through various means.

Stubb also pointed out the dual nature of warfare being waged by Moscow: a kinetic war in Ukraine and a hybrid war in Europe. “The line between war and peace has been blurred,” he noted, underscoring the complexity of the geopolitical landscape.

As investigations continue, Poland remains determined to identify and apprehend those responsible for this act of sabotage, emphasizing the need for vigilance in safeguarding national security and supporting Ukraine amidst ongoing tensions in the region.