Poland warns Ukrainians about Russian espionage traps and agent networks
Recently, Polish security agencies have observed an increase in Russian intelligence networks actively recruiting Ukrainian citizens residing in Poland.
The Minister-Coordinator of Intelligence Services, Tomasz Śemoniak, addressed the Ukrainian community with a warning to remain vigilant and cautious about attempts by Russian agents to co-opt them into espionage or sabotage activities.
According to him, this clandestine recruitment increasingly takes place through online platforms — social media and messaging apps — often promising quick financial rewards that appeal particularly to those facing economic hardships.
The minister emphasized that the danger lies not only in potential personal security threats but also in becoming tools in the hands of foreign intelligence services aiming to destabilize Poland and sow distrust between Ukrainian and Polish communities.
Polish authorities have detained more than 50 individuals in recent months suspected of acting in Russia’s interests, including Ukrainians attempting to establish channels for smuggling explosives into Ukraine.
Law enforcement officials point out that espionage activities now employ new methods, making detection and prevention more challenging.
Currently, dozens of investigations are ongoing, with most recruited Ukrainians and Belarusians cooperating not out of ideological conviction but due to financial motives.
Security agencies strongly advise Ukrainian nationals in Poland to avoid becoming pawns in foreign intelligence games, underscoring the importance of vigilant information and operational security measures.