Poland blames Starlink sabotage on Russia

German authorities detained a woman and a man in connection with a fire that struck a Polish Starlink internet station in September, according to private broadcaster RMF FM. The Starlink station, owned by state-owned telecommunications company Exatel, is used to transmit internet traffic through Poland, including to Ukraine. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk claimed the incident was an "act of hybrid warfare," while Ukraine's allies have accused Russia of employing various forms of hybrid attacks, such as drone and missile strikes against countries supporting Kyiv in its fight against Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

RMF FM reported that the woman may have assisted with the logistics of the sabotage operation, and prosecutors will evaluate her involvement and potential extradition. The fourth suspect, a man, is also under investigation. Polish Interior Minister Marcin Kierwinski stated that the two Turks face charges of sabotage and espionage on behalf of a foreign intelligence service.

The Starlink station, which is still operational after the fire, plays a crucial role in Ukraine receiving internet access amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.