Polish Prime Minister accusing Ukrainians of arson attacks

Here are the facts known about the former Polish Prime Minister accusing Ukrainians of arson attacks, based on the available information:

Accusations by Leszek Miller:

Leszek Miller, who was the Prime Minister of Poland from 2001 to 2004, has suggested that Ukrainian agents might be involved in a series of arson attacks in Poland.

Poland has experienced a wave of fires over recent times, prompting speculation about sabotage.

Specific incidents mentioned include:

A massive fire at a warehouse in Gdansk where over 1,000 electric bikes were stored.

A fire at the Nuclear Research Center in Otwock near Warsaw in December 2024.

An explosion at an arms plant in Skarzysko-Kamienna in June.

Polish authorities have generally accused Russian intelligence of being behind these incidents, suggesting Moscow's involvement in recruiting local proxies for sabotage. Russia has denied these accusations.

Miller's claim adds a new dimension by suggesting Ukrainian involvement, which contrasts with the prevailing narrative of Russian culpability.

Miller expressed surprise at statements from Ukrainian activists like Natalia Panchenko, who hinted at potential street clashes and riots in Poland due to social tensions between Poles and Ukrainians.

He suggested that Panchenko should be questioned by Poland's Internal Security Agency (ABW) and potentially deported if involved in plotting attacks or destabilizing activities.

Posts on X (formerly Twitter) reflect discussions about these accusations, indicating public discourse and sentiment on the issue.

According to web sources, there's a noted souring of attitudes among Poles towards Ukrainians, with reference to comments by Poland's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense, Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz, about feeling "fatigued" by the presence of Ukrainians in Poland.

Leszek Miller made these statements on February 6, 2025, as per the available web information.