Investigations expose Russian-backed subversive operations, and the resurgence of retail ventures linked to Russian oligarchs. Source: Notes from Poland, Polskie Radio
Poland is confronting renewed threats from Russian influence, with recent reports detailing a concerning rise in espionage and sabotage orchestrated from beyond its eastern border. An investigation by broadcaster TVN has unveiled alarming evidence of Russian intelligence financing activities within Poland, including acts of vandalism targeting the former ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party and President Andrzej Duda.
The findings emerge three years after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. According to TVN, thousands of politically charged slogans—some vulgar, such as “Jebać PiS” (“F*** PiS”) and “Duda do dupy” (“Duda sucks”)—appeared on the buildings across Polish cities. These were not the work of trained agents but rather hired individuals, primarily immigrants and refugees from neighboring countries, recruited via Telegram and paid in cryptocurrency.
Reports indicate that participants received as little as $7 per graffiti act and around $5 for distributing anti-war leaflets. Some were tasked with more serious assignments, such as installing surveillance cameras near strategic locations and monitoring military movements. “There is no doubt this operation traces back to Russia,” said Piotr Łopatyński from the National Prosecutor’s Office, confirming Russian involvement.
This tactic of using untrained locals as intermediaries highlights Russia’s ability to adapt under increased scrutiny. Recruits were required to provide photographic proof of their completed tasks, raising concerns about the extent of Russian intelligence operations in Poland.
The revelations have sparked outrage among Polish politicians, particularly those from the now-opposition PiS party. Stanisław Żaryn, a former government adviser, condemned Russia’s attempts to fund targeted attacks on Polish leaders, stating, “This vulgar messaging was and remains a core element of the political agenda of the current ruling circles.”
Some slogans gained traction during mass protests against the PiS government, especially after restrictive abortion laws fueled public discontent. Former Deputy Foreign Minister Paweł Jabłoński noted that members of the current ruling coalition had previously referenced these slogans, underlining their broader political impact beyond simple vandalism.
Poland has since intensified its countermeasures against Russian operations. Authorities dismantled the network responsible for various sabotage acts, including unauthorized surveillance near critical infrastructure. Tougher legislation has been introduced, making disinformation punishable by up to eight years in prison, while sabotage offenses now carry sentences of ten years or more.
Recent court rulings reflect this heightened security approach: one person was sentenced to eight years for planning arson attacks, and two Russian nationals received five-and-a-half-year sentences for distributing Wagner Group recruitment materials in Poland.
Simultaneously, concerns are growing over Russian economic influence, as new retail chains with ties to Russian oligarchs emerge. The Tak-Tu discount store chain, backed by Viktor Lipin and connected to sanctioned oligarch Sergei Schneider, has raised alarms about potential Russian commercial infiltration into Poland’s market. The Ministry of Development and Technology has launched an inquiry, stressing the need to prevent Russian economic expansion amid ongoing sanctions.
Schneider, sanctioned for supporting Russian state interests, previously attempted to introduce the Mere discount chain before the war, though it failed. The rise of Tak-Tu now rekindles fears of Russian encroachment into Poland’s business sector, mirroring wider concerns about economic sovereignty and foreign influence.
Poland’s government and citizens remain alert as these developments bring national security into sharper focus. Experts warn that countering these threats is complex, given the interplay between economic infiltration and subversive activities driven by hostile foreign actors. Reports of sabotage and politically motivated Russian operations reinforce Moscow’s persistent efforts to destabilize Poland, urging continued vigilance.
Commenting on recent intelligence efforts, National Prosecutor’s Office spokesperson Przemysław Nowak revealed that Poland is currently handling 27 espionage cases, most of which remain classified. “We are dealing with a foreign power conducting hostile actions within Polish borders,” he stated, underlining the necessity for ongoing surveillance.
As each incident unfolds, Poland faces increasing challenges in safeguarding both its security and political stability, reinforcing the urgency of countering espionage, disinformation, and economic threats from Russia.
