Warsaw: Poland took decisive action on Monday by announcing restrictions on the movement of Russian diplomats within the country, citing security concerns in the wake of apprehended individuals allegedly involved in sabotage plots on behalf of Russian security services.
The newly imposed measures will limit the movement of consular staff specifically to the Warsaw region, excluding Russian Ambassador Sergei Andreyev from these restrictions.
Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski emphasized that Poland’s move was not isolated, urging other nations to follow suit in addressing what he termed as Russia’s engagement in hybrid warfare against the European Union and Poland.
“I just announced a Polish decision in connection to Russia’s participation in hybrid warfare against the European Union, including Poland: a restriction of movement for Russian diplomats in our country,” Sikorski conveyed during a press briefing in Brussels after discussions with EU counterparts.
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Sikorski underscored the seriousness of the situation, expressing hope that Russia would perceive the restrictions as a significant cautionary signal. “These are national decisions, but we have evidence that the Russian state is involved in authorizing sabotage in our country as well. We hope that the Russian Federation will treat this as a very serious warning,” he added.
In response to Poland’s announcement, Moscow vowed to retaliate against the imposed restrictions, warning that Poland would “greatly regret” its actions. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova conveyed Moscow’s intent to study the situation and implement appropriate countermeasures.
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However, Russian Ambassador Sergei Andreyev revealed that the embassy had not received official notification of the restrictions, highlighting a lack of communication regarding the matter.
