Prime Minister of Poland, Donald Tusk, made a sensational statement regarding the involvement of Russian intelligence agencies in a large-scale fire that destroyed one of Warsaw’s main shopping centers last year
He accused Moscow of arson, emphasizing that the investigation has already advanced to the point that several suspects have been detained, and others have been identified and are at large. The source of this information is Tusk's post on social media platform X (Twitter), where he directly stated: "Now we know for sure that the large-scale fire at the Marywilska shopping center in Warsaw was orchestrated by Russian intelligence agencies. Some of the perpetrators have already been detained, the rest have been identified and are being sought. We will definitely find you!" What prompted this high-profile announcement? It is reported that the incident occurred on May 12, 2024. On that day, a major fire broke out in the Marywilska 44 shopping center in the Polish capital, which was one of the largest and most active in the city. The multi-story complex, housing over 1,400 shops and service points, was nearly completely destroyed by flames. According to official data, firefighters observed that the fire started simultaneously in multiple locations, indicating possible arson. Shortly after the tragedy, Polish authorities initiated an active investigation. In the early stages, various theories were considered, but by the end of May, Tusk made a high-profile statement accusing Russian agencies of involvement. He claimed that the arson was a deliberate operation ordered by Russian intelligence services aimed at destabilizing Poland and weakening its position in the region. The politician emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and several suspects believed to be active participants in the provocation have already been detained. Meanwhile, the identification of other potential suspects is underway, and law enforcement is making every effort to swiftly resolve the case. According to Polish intelligence sources, pro-Kremlin circles have long suspected destructive actions and pro-Russian forces both within the country and abroad. In particular, questions have been raised repeatedly about the possible involvement in explosions and bombings related to Russian influence, with the aim of sowing panic and intensifying Poland's political isolation on the international stage. The incident at Marywilska 44 garnered widespread resonance and became additional evidence of the so-called 'hybrid warfare' being waged against the country striving to strengthen its independence and security. Experts suggest that Tusk’s sharp and confident stance may indicate growing tensions between Poland and Russia and point to a new escalation in the regional security situation. Currently, politicians are calling for united efforts and increased law enforcement measures to protect citizens and prevent similar provocations in the future. It is expected that the investigation into this case will continue for several more months, and the public will closely monitor subsequent developments. Warsaw remains active in its pursuit of establishing the full circumstances of this tragedy and holding all responsible for this act of violence accountable.