Polish Deputy PM accuses Russia of trying to provoke blackout

(MENAFN) Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Affairs Krzysztof Gawkowski accused Russia on Tuesday of trying to provoke a major blackout in Poland, calling December’s attacks on the country’s energy infrastructure likely acts of sabotage aimed at destabilizing both the power grid and public confidence.

“The latest attack in recent years was not random. It was designed to cause a blackout. That was the goal,” Gawkowski said, marking one of Warsaw’s strongest statements directly attributing disruptions to Russian intent.

The incidents targeted power substations and transmission lines, initially attributed to equipment failures or weather, but authorities have since investigated potential external interference. Gawkowski described the attacks as psychological warfare, warning that a prolonged blackout could severely impact national security, public services, and social cohesion—especially as Poland continues to support Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.

While the government has not publicly released evidence due to national security and ongoing investigations, the statement reflects Poland’s growing willingness to confront hybrid threats from Moscow, including cyberattacks, disinformation, and pressure on critical infrastructure.

Poland shares a long border with Ukraine and hosts significant NATO deployments, positioning itself as a key player in the West’s response to Russia’s full-scale invasion. Russian officials and media have consistently criticized Warsaw, labeling it a hostile actor supporting “anti-Russian forces.”

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