Mon May 12 09:44:46 UTC 2025: ## Poland Expels Russian Consul After Blaming Russia for Warsaw Shopping Mall Arson
**WARSAW, POLAND** – Poland has expelled the Russian consul in Krakow following an investigation into a massive fire that destroyed the Marywilska 44 shopping mall in Warsaw a year ago. Polish authorities have concluded that the fire, which occurred on May 12, 2024, was the result of arson orchestrated by Russian special services.
Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski announced the expulsion on Monday, stating that the decision was made in response to “evidence that the Russian special services committed a reprehensible act of sabotage.” The fire devastated the shopping mall, which housed approximately 1,400 shops and service points, many run by members of Warsaw’s Vietnamese community.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed the findings on social media, stating that Polish officials now have definitive proof of Russian involvement. He revealed that several perpetrators are in custody, while others have been identified and are being sought.
The expulsion comes amidst growing European concerns regarding covert Russian operations aimed at destabilizing the region. Russia has historically denied any involvement in such attacks. This incident further strains already tense relations between Poland and Russia.
First Piper 