Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Jarosław Stróżyk, head of Poland's Military Counterintelligence Service (SKW), will lead the commission, which aims to operate without political or partisan biases.
Stróżyk has a long military and diplomatic career, having served, among other posts, as deputy head of NATO intelligence, according to the government.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced the commission's objective to provide reliable knowledge about the threats posed by Russia and Belarus, stating, "We already know these countries and their services have been most active in Poland."
He added that the commission would address not only past incidents but also current issues that might affect the future, including ongoing public and administrative influence.
Journalists questioned the focus of the commission, especially regarding recent events such as last week’s cyberattack on Poland’s PAP news agency and a series of arsons across the country.
Tusk responded that the commission would initially explore significant past events but would also consider their potential ongoing current impact.
iii Znamy wszystkie szczegóły! 🔻https://t.co/dkokGt428x pic.twitter.com/7dRJmnGnYV — PolskieRadio24.pl (@PR24_pl) June 5, 2024
The commission's first report, detailing findings and involved individuals, is expected in two months, promising swift transparency.
Additionally, Tusk declared that the commission would not be influenced by preconceived notions or political agendas.
The inquiry panel is composed of experts from various fields and will also involve retired prosecutors specializing in counterintelligence, enhancing its capability to tackle complex cases of foreign interference.
Various government ministries, including those of foreign affairs, defense, finance, digital affairs, and the interior, have nominated representatives to join the commission.
Justice Minister Adam Bodnar emphasized the diverse representation within the commission and the robust support from various ministries to ensure a comprehensive examination of foreign influences on Poland's internal security and interests.
Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak said that the country was currently contending not only with influences but also with active operations commissioned by Russian and Belarusian services, including sabotage attempts and a volatile situation at the border, which he argued were all undoubtedly actions orchestrated by these services.
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Source: IAR, PAP, gov.pl