In a joint operation led by Poland’s Internal Security Agency (ABW) and the police, two Russian nationals have been apprehended on charges of disseminating propaganda on behalf of the Wagner Group, a Russian mercenary organization. The development was confirmed by the country’s Interior Minister, Mariusz Kaminski, in a statement posted on the X platform (formerly Twitter).
The detained individuals, identified as Alexei T. and Andrei G., are facing accusations of engaging in espionage and other offenses. They were taken into custody after being found in possession of over 3,000 leaflets promoting the Wagner Group. These materials were reportedly obtained in Moscow and subsequently distributed in public areas across Krakow and Warsaw. According to authorities, the suspects were also commissioned to circulate the propaganda in other undisclosed locations within the two cities.
The investigative team revealed that the Russians meticulously documented their activities, extensively photographing the locations where the propaganda materials were disseminated. These images were then used as evidence to claim remuneration from the Russian side. The ABW press bureau disclosed that the detained individuals stood to earn a sum of up to 500,000 Russian rubles (equivalent to approximately EUR 4,495) for their tasks.
Notably, investigators highlighted that the accused had already undertaken similar activities in other European Union cities, such as Berlin and Paris, as part of what authorities refer to as a “hybrid war” against the EU and NATO. Prosecutor Karol Borcholski from the press bureau of the National Prosecutor’s Office emphasized that the suspects’ actions were aimed at undermining the national interests of Poland. The investigation suggests a pattern of activity consistent with attempts to sow discord and misinformation.
If proven guilty, the two detainees could face a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. The incident has once again brought attention to the activities of the Wagner Group, which has been deeply involved in the conflict in Ukraine and recently found itself entangled in a purported rebellion against the Kremlin. The outcome of this case could shed light on the extent of the group’s influence and operations in various parts of Europe.