Lithuanian authorities expose Russian network behind arson attack plots in Europe
- Lithuanian prosecutors discovered a network involved in planning arson attacks across Europe, allegedly linked to Russian military intelligence.
- This network organized mailings of explosive devices via major courier services to several European destinations.
- The investigation indicates a coordinated effort to execute sabotage as a potential retaliation for European support of Ukraine.
In 2024, Lithuanian authorities reported a disturbing rise in organized sabotage linked to Russian citizens, raising alarms across Europe. Investigations revealed that parcels containing explosive devices were mailed through major courier services, including DHL and DPD, from Vilnius, Lithuania, to various destinations across Europe. These devices, concealed within common items such as massage pillows, were part of a complex conspiracy involving at least 15 individuals associated with Russia, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and Ukraine. The timing of these deliveries coincided with heightened tensions in the region following the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing concerns about Moscow's possible attempts to destabilize neighboring countries that support Ukraine. The Lithuanian general prosecution service and criminal police described how the parcels were designed with electronic timers and intended for triggering explosions in strategic locations. They indicated that one of the parcels sparked a fire at Leipzig airport shortly after it was dispatched, while others detonated upon transit, notably within a DPD truck and a DHL warehouse in Birmingham. The involvement of specific individuals like Daniil Gromov and Tomas Dovgan Stabacinskas as key coordinators signals the orchestrated effort behind these dangerous operations. Moreover, this investigation unveiled a broader initiative involving arson attacks planned across several European countries, linking back to a network suspected of having ties to the Russian military intelligence service, known as the GRU. As security officials further delved into the matter, international arrest warrants were issued for several suspects, indicating a serious commitment by authorities to dismantle this network. The investigation found more than 30 incendiary devices, suggesting the potential for future attacks, underlining the urgency for security measures in Europe. The revelations about these planned incidents escalated concerns over the risk posed by hostile foreign influence, particularly as European nations continue their support for Ukraine amid the conflict. A joint statement underscored the organized nature of the criminals' actions, demonstrating a sophisticated approach to executing their plans while stressing the ongoing need for vigilance against such threats.