Slovak security detains Ukrainians amid sabotage suspicions
Slovak services report a threat to critical infrastructure. Two Ukrainian citizens have been detained, although their connection to sabotage is not certain.
Slovak security services have reported a threat to the country's critical infrastructure. Following a National Security Council meeting, the head of Slovak civilian intelligence, Pavol Gaszpar, announced the detention of two Ukrainian citizens. Gaszpar emphasised that those detained may not be connected to potential sabotage.
Pavol Gaszpar, head of the Slovak Information Service (SIS), did not disclose specific details regarding the threat but noted that it involves, among others, the energy sector. The services have identified a suspect who has been sending bomb threat messages since the spring to various institutions such as schools, universities, and courts. This suspect is currently outside Slovak territory.
At an intelligence level, we have observed prolonged activity by a certain group of individuals displaying signs of sophisticated espionage and potentially posing a threat to security, stated Gaszpar.
According to information provided by Gaszpar, the group includes a Slovak with Hungarian citizenship, a Ukrainian citizen, and other individuals whose identities have not been disclosed to the public. As indicated by the Polish Press Agency, the Slovak Minister of Internal Affairs, Matusz Szutaj Esztok, announced that the protection of critical infrastructure in the country will be enhanced.
Threat of sabotage attacks
In early November, German intelligence reported that Russian agents are intensifying subversive activities against NATO countries supporting Ukraine. Similar warnings were also issued by US intelligence back in September.
British security services directly accused Russia of involvement in "dozens of incidents" throughout the country. Ken McCallum, director general of the British Security Service, as quoted by "Onet", indicated that Kremlin agents are employing "arson, sabotage, surveillance, and attacks on Russian opposition figures living in Europe."
