Starlink: Fire at Polish Station Reveals New Phase of Hybrid Warfare

A fire that broke out on Wednesday night at a Starlink transmission station in Wola Krobowska, Poland, was described as sabotage by Digital Affairs Minister Krzysztof Gawkowski. The site, owned by state operator Exatel, remains operational after the fire.

Starlink station fire points to Russian sabotage

Gawkowski stated that the fire "was deliberately designed to disable the station, disrupting internet access for various institutions, including the Ukrainian army." He added that "many indications suggest this fits into the new Russian attack doctrine."

Use of the station in data transmission to Ukraine

The station, used by Starlink and other internet providers, transmits data traffic through Poland and to Ukraine. The minister emphasized that "other internet providers use the Exatel facility, including SpaceX, the owner of Starlink."

Investigation and suspicion of arson

Firefighter crews controlled the fire, which involved the power station, switchboard, and generator. Police and Internal Security Agency (ABW) agents were dispatched to the scene. The security guard stated that "everything points to arson."

Poland as a focus of Russian sabotage

Poland has been the target of several Russian sabotage operations since 2022, including fires at drone facilities and airspace violations. Minister Tusk warned that Russia plans to "accelerate hybrid warfare" against Ukraine's allies.

Context of hybrid warfare in Europe

The incident occurs amid warnings from NATO countries about the possibility of Russian hybrid attacks. Europe has reported that Russia may test the willingness to support Ukraine, while Russia denies involvement in attacks.

With information from BBC, Notes From Poland, Euronews.com.