Russians orchestrate explosive parcel attacks across Europe

In July 2024, Lithuania uncovered an extensive plot involving explosive parcels sent from Vilnius to multiple locations in Europe. The Lithuanian general prosecution service and criminal police revealed that the detonations of parcels carried by DHL and DPD were organized by Russian citizens with connections to military intelligence, highlighting the sophistication and intention behind these attacks. Authorities identified key individuals in the conspiracy, notably Daniil Gromov, a Ukrainian citizen using a Russian alias, and Tomas Dovgan Stabacinskas, a Lithuanian-Russian citizen involved in coordinating the scheme. The investigation found that the parcels contained explosive devices concealed in vibrating massage pillows, demonstrating a high level of premeditation and planning. These four parcels were not just isolated incidents but part of a larger test run that sought to disrupt cargo flights to the United States as well as to initiate broader acts of sabotage against Western nations supporting Ukraine. This plot coincided with a series of fires and acts of instability attributed to Russian operatives in Europe, suggesting a coordinated effort to create fear and unrest among allies of Ukraine. One of the parcels ignited at Leipzig airport on July 20, 2024, shortly before departing for Britain, while another exploded on a DPD truck in Poland on July 21. A third detonated at a DHL warehouse in Birmingham on July 22, showcasing the varied and potentially lethal impact of the operation. Fortunately, the final parcel failed to detonate due to a technical malfunction, which could have resulted in further destruction and loss of life. The Lithuanian investigation revealed a network operating across borders, with connections to citizens from multiple countries, including Russia, Latvia, Estonia, and Ukraine, leading to the charging of 15 individuals. The Lithuanian authorities have issued international search warrants for Gromov, Stabacinskas, and another Russian suspect, Andrej Baburov. The statement from the prosecution emphasized that these individuals carried out their activities meticulously, adhering to a strict conspiracy structure that defined their roles within the operation. Despite Russia's denial of involvement and its dismissal of accusations of malign actions as a form of Russophobia, European security agencies continue to monitor threats emanating from Russian intelligence operations. The ongoing concern regarding safety in cargo transportation and public spaces underscores the importance of vigilance and international cooperation in addressing these threats posed by extremist entities aiming to destabilize geopolitical stability.