Poland has accused Russian intelligence services of orchestrating a suspected sabotage attack on a Starlink satellite communications station after a fire damaged critical infrastructure at the facility in September.
Polish authorities announced on Monday, October 12, 2026, that two Turkish citizens had been detained in Germany in connection with the incident. The suspects are accused of deliberately setting fire to Starlink infrastructure in Wola Krobowska, approximately 40 kilometres south of Warsaw.
The incident has raised concerns about the security of communications infrastructure used to support Ukraine amid Russia’s ongoing war against the country.
Poland Links Starlink Station Fire to Russian Intelligence
Polish Minister for Special Services Tomasz Siemoniak said the government believed Russian intelligence services were behind the suspected sabotage.
He also alleged that Russian operatives were increasingly relying on individuals connected to criminal networks to carry out covert activities.
Polish Interior Minister Marcin Kierwiński said the two detained suspects would face sabotage charges in Poland. Prime Minister Donald Tusk described the incident as another act of hybrid warfare, referring to covert activities intended to undermine a country’s security without relying solely on conventional military attacks.
The fire reportedly damaged the station’s power system and backup generator. Polish authorities suspect the attack was intended to disrupt internet connectivity, including services used by Ukraine’s military.
Why Starlink Infrastructure Matters to Ukraine
Starlink, the satellite internet service operated by SpaceX, has become an important communications tool for Ukraine since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.
The system provides connectivity in areas where conventional telecommunications infrastructure has been damaged or is unavailable. Ukrainian military personnel also rely on Starlink terminals for battlefield communications and operational coordination.
Poland has previously said it pays for Ukraine’s Starlink subscription, making the security of related infrastructure a concern for Warsaw and its allies.
Growing Concerns Over Sabotage Across Europe
The investigation comes amid wider warnings from European officials about suspected Russian sabotage, cyberattacks and other covert operations targeting countries supporting Ukraine.
Western officials say such activities may aim to weaken public support for Kyiv, create instability and divert security resources. Moscow has repeatedly rejected similar accusations, describing them as unfounded and driven by anti-Russian sentiment.
The allegations surrounding the Starlink station remain part of an ongoing investigation. The arrests represent a significant development, but the accusations against Russia should be distinguished from findings established through legal proceedings.
Swifteradio.com
