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Polish authorities have launched a search for a former soldier accused of spying for Russia and spreading disinformation through social media, according to a report by RMF24 published on January 29.
The District Prosecutor’s Office in Kraków confirmed that the investigation is being conducted by Poland’s Internal Security Agency. The suspect, a former member of the Polish Armed Forces, is believed to have fled to Russia, according to spokesperson Olivia Bożek-Michalec.
Military affairs prosecutors have charged the individual under Article 130 of Poland’s Criminal Code, which specifically addresses espionage activities. The case represents the latest in a series of security concerns for Poland, which has become increasingly vigilant about Russian intelligence operations since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
According to prosecutors, the former soldier allegedly participated in Russian intelligence operations and assisted Moscow by distributing propaganda through TikTok. One account specifically mentioned in the investigation was named “PolaknaDonbasie” (A Pole in Donbas), suggesting content focused on the contested eastern Ukrainian region where Russian-backed separatists have been active since 2014.
Bożek-Michalec stated that the suspect published misleading and false information designed to “seriously destabilize the constitutional order of the Republic of Poland.” The nature of this disinformation campaign appears to align with broader Russian efforts to undermine NATO allies through social media influence operations.
Beyond the espionage charges, the individual faces additional accusations related to serving in the armed forces of a foreign country, which is prohibited under Polish law. This suggests the former soldier may have joined Russian military formations, potentially in the occupied territories of Ukraine.
A district court in Kraków has already ordered pre-trial detention for the suspect, but as he remains at large, authorities have issued an arrest warrant. Polish security services are coordinating with international partners to locate and potentially extradite the individual.
This case emerges amid heightened concerns about Russian espionage activities across Europe. Poland, which shares a border with the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad and has been one of Ukraine’s staunchest supporters, has become a particular target for Russian intelligence operations.
The arrest comes just weeks after another espionage case in Poland. On December 23, 2025, Polish authorities detained a 40-year-old man suspected of gathering and sharing sensitive information about military transport and railway infrastructure. That suspect has been placed in custody for three months and faces up to eight years in prison if convicted.
Security analysts note that Russian intelligence services have intensified their activities throughout NATO’s eastern flank, with particular focus on countries providing substantial military aid to Ukraine. Poland has served as a crucial logistics hub for Western military assistance flowing into Ukraine and hosts significant numbers of Ukrainian refugees.
The use of TikTok as a vector for disinformation highlights Russia’s evolving approach to information warfare, targeting younger demographics through platforms where content moderation may be less rigorous compared to more established social networks.
Polish authorities have not disclosed when the former soldier first began working with Russian intelligence or what specific military information might have been compromised. The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to assess the full impact of the alleged espionage activities.
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22 Comments
This case highlights the ongoing challenges Poland faces in countering Russian influence operations. Maintaining a strong defense against foreign interference is critical.
Absolutely. Poland must remain vigilant and continue strengthening its capabilities to detect and disrupt these types of hybrid threats.
The alleged involvement of a former Polish soldier in this espionage and propaganda scheme is particularly troubling. Maintaining vigilance against internal threats is crucial.
Yes, the insider threat aspect makes this case even more concerning. Poland will need to thoroughly review its military and intelligence vetting processes.
It’s good to see Poland taking this threat seriously and pursuing the suspect. Disinformation campaigns can be highly damaging, so a robust response is warranted.
Agreed. Proactive investigation and prosecution of these activities is essential to safeguarding Poland’s national interests.
The alleged involvement of a former Polish soldier in this espionage and disinformation scheme is deeply concerning. Poland’s security services must leave no stone unturned in this investigation.
Agreed. Rooting out insider threats and bolstering counterintelligence capabilities should be top priorities for Poland in addressing this challenge.
This case serves as a reminder of the persistent threat of Russian interference in Poland’s affairs. Continued vigilance and a comprehensive response are essential.
Absolutely. Poland must remain steadfast in its efforts to protect its national security and democratic institutions from foreign manipulation.
The alleged use of social media, particularly TikTok, to spread pro-Russian propaganda is a worrying trend. Poland will need to closely monitor and counter such tactics.
Agreed. Emerging social media platforms can be potent vectors for disinformation, so Poland must stay ahead of the curve in addressing these challenges.
It’s concerning to see a former Polish soldier allegedly involved in a Russian disinformation campaign. This underscores the need for robust security and vetting procedures.
Definitely. Ensuring the loyalty and integrity of military and security personnel is a key priority in defending against foreign influence operations.
The use of social media platforms like TikTok to spread disinformation is a worrying tactic. Poland must remain vigilant and develop effective countermeasures to combat this challenge.
Agreed. Addressing the evolving landscape of information warfare and social media manipulation will be critical for Poland’s national security efforts.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by Russia to undermine Poland’s stability and sovereignty. A robust and coordinated response from Polish authorities is essential.
Absolutely. Poland must continue to strengthen its defenses against these types of hybrid threats to protect its national interests and democratic institutions.
Spreading pro-Russian propaganda through social media is a worrying tactic. I hope Polish authorities can swiftly apprehend the suspect and prevent further damage from this disinformation campaign.
Absolutely. Rooting out Russian influence operations should be a top priority for Poland’s security services.
This is a concerning case of alleged Russian espionage and disinformation targeting Poland. It’s important Poland remains vigilant against such threats to national security and democratic integrity.
Agreed. Poland must continue to investigate and address these types of subversive activities to protect its sovereignty and public discourse.