Poland’s Military Counterintelligence Service detained an employee of the Ministry of National Defence on 3 February 2026 on suspicion of cooperating with Russian and Belarusian intelligence services. The suspect worked within the ministry’s strategy and planning department and had been under surveillance for several months before the arrest. Investigators said his activities were closely monitored and documented over an extended period. The case has heightened concerns over foreign intelligence penetration of NATO member states. Polish authorities have not disclosed the individual’s identity, citing the ongoing investigation.
Arrest follows months-long counterintelligence operation
According to Polish media, the suspect was detained as part of a targeted operation conducted by military counterintelligence officers. Investigators believe he passed sensitive information to foreign handlers while holding a position linked to defence planning processes. The arrest was reported in a detailed account of the counterintelligence action inside the defence ministry. Officials stressed that the monitoring phase was designed to map contacts, methods and potential damage before moving to detention. The case is being treated as a serious breach of national security.
Poland seen as priority target for Russian intelligence
Security analysts say the case reflects sustained interest by Russian intelligence services in Poland, which plays a central logistical and military role in supporting Ukraine. As a key transit hub for allied assistance, Poland is seen as a valuable source of information on supply routes, defence coordination and cooperation within NATO. Russian intelligence is believed to focus on identifying vulnerabilities in Poland’s defence system and its interaction with allies. The arrest fits a broader pattern of espionage activity detected across Europe since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Reports of the detention also circulated via a message shared on pro-Russian monitoring channels.
Part of a wider pattern of espionage cases in Poland
Poland has faced multiple espionage scandals in recent years. In March 2022, Warsaw expelled 45 Russian diplomats suspected of intelligence activity under diplomatic cover. In 2023, Polish courts sentenced 14 Russian and Belarusian nationals for espionage-related offences, including preparations for sabotage. Authorities say these cases demonstrate a systematic effort by Russian services to rebuild networks despite earlier disruptions. The latest arrest suggests that recruitment efforts continue to target individuals with access to sensitive information.
Calls for tighter vetting and counterintelligence measures
Polish officials and security experts argue that the case underlines the need for stricter screening of personnel with access to classified or strategically sensitive data. Enhanced background checks and monitoring of individuals expressing loyalty to Kremlin policies are seen as critical preventive measures. Warsaw’s prominent role within NATO structures makes it a focal point for intelligence collection aimed at the alliance as a whole. The investigation has renewed debate over strengthening counterintelligence coordination among allies. Polish authorities said further steps may follow as the scope of the suspected network is assessed.
