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Polish government establishes commission to investigate Russian, Belarusian influence

22.05.2024 10:00
Prime Minister Donald Tusk has announced the creation of a special commission to scrutinize Russian and Belorussian influence in Poland from 2004 to 2024.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Photo: PAP/Piotr Nowak

Chaired by Gen. Jarosław Stróżyk, the head of the Military Counterintelligence Service, the commission will operate discreetly, avoiding media exposure during its sessions.

Stróżyk, a former diplomat and NATO intelligence deputy chief, brings a wealth of experience in security sciences to this role.

The government has committed to updating the public on the commission's findings periodically. Its initial report is expected two months into its operation, shortly after the upcoming European Parliament elections.

Speaking on Tuesday, Tusk also confirmed the reinstatement of regional structures within the Internal Security Agency, reversing reductions made under former conservative Prime Minister Beata Szydło, state news agency PAP reported.

This move marks the beginning of a broader strengthening of Poland's special services, which will include financial and personnel boosts, according to officials.

Tusk highlighted ongoing challenges at the Poland-Belarus border, where the majority of individuals attempting illegal crossings reportedly hold Russian visas.

This situation has been linked to organized migration efforts by Russia, which attracts people from countries in the Middle East and Africa, relocates them to Moscow, and then moves them to Belarus in order to put political pressure on Poland and the broader EU.

The Polish government plans to enhance border security through the "Eastern Shield" project, which involves fortification efforts along the eastern border.

Tusk reported the detention of 12 individuals connected to suspected sabotage and espionage activities, affirming the efficiency of Polish security services in combating such threats.

He mentioned that an investigation was underway into possible Russian involvement in a major fire that recently destroyed a shopping complex in Warsaw.

He urged the media to refrain from circulating speculations or false information about security matters.

The formation of the commission and the reinforcement of security measures reflect Poland's proactive stance against foreign interference and its commitment to maintaining national security, officials told reporters.

(rt/gs)

Source: IAR, PAP, pap-mediaroom.pl