Polish authorities have disrupted an alleged plot to assassinate a Ukrainian-American in Warsaw, reportedly backed by Russia, according to Prime Minister Donald Tusk. This incident is considered unprecedented, marking the first known attempt by a Russian-linked actor to target a U.S. citizen on the soil of another NATO member. The intended target was identified as a U.S. citizen of Ukrainian descent, viewed as a threat by the Russian government, as stated by Polish officials.
A suspect, accused of being recruited by Russian intelligence services, was apprehended in Poland on August 7 and is currently held in custody for three months. This operation was conducted in coordination with U.S. intelligence services, Poland’s minister responsible for intelligence agencies confirmed. The arrest comes amid heightened concerns across Europe about alleged Russian operations aimed at political adversaries, supporters of Ukraine, and others deemed hostile to Moscow.
European authorities have previously thwarted suspected plots involving assassination, sabotage, and arson, allegedly tied to Russian intelligence networks. Prime Minister Tusk emphasized the need for Poland and its allies to remain vigilant against potential Russian attempts to target individuals it finds inconvenient in various countries.
The Russian government has yet to comment on these allegations, and the U.S. State Department has acknowledged awareness of the reports but has not provided further information. This case is the latest in a series of incidents across Europe that Western officials attribute to supposed Russian intelligence activities following the onset of the war in Ukraine.