Mystery fires were Russian ‘test runs’ to target cargo flights to US

Russian Test Runs Target US Cargo Flights in Mystery Parcel Fires

A series of mystery fires in Europe were allegedly Russian test runs to target US cargo flights, say Polish prosecutors. Fires broke out in packages at courier companies across Poland, Germany, and the UK, involving incendiary devices suspected of being planted by Russia’s military intelligence agency, the GRU. According to security officials, these fires were designed as dry runs to test the effectiveness of sending flammable parcels to the US and Canada.

Incendiary Devices and Security Concerns

The fires reportedly involved electric massage machines rigged with a magnesium-based substance, known for its difficulty to extinguish—especially mid-air. “The group’s goal was also to test the transfer channel for such parcels,” said Katarzyna Calow-Jaszewska, a Polish prosecutor. Russian test runs targeting US cargo flights have raised security concerns across Europe, prompting heightened security measures.

For further insights on this investigation, visit BBC’s coverage.

Timeline of Parcel Fires Across Europe

In July, fires ignited in a container bound for a DHL cargo flight in Leipzig, at a transport company near Warsaw, and at a DHL facility in Minworth, UK. German and UK officials believe these incidents may be linked to Russian sabotage. The head of Germany’s domestic intelligence agency, Thomas Haldenwang, described the device at DHL’s Leipzig-Halle logistics hub as “suspected Russian sabotage.” UK officials have been similarly cautious, with MI5 head Ken McCallum warning of increasing “recklessness” from Russian agents targeting the UK.

Hybrid Warfare and Warnings from Lithuania

Officials in Lithuania, where some of the suspicious parcels originated, warn of Russian test runs targeting US cargo flights as part of a broader hybrid campaign to destabilize European countries. Arvydas Pocius, head of Lithuania’s national security and defence committee, described the fires as “aimed at causing chaos, panic, and mistrust” across Europe, aligning with Russia’s alleged intent to disrupt Western support for Ukraine.

DHL’s Response to Escalating Security Threats

Following these incidents, DHL has implemented additional security protocols across Europe to protect its employees, facilities, and customer shipments. “DHL Express has taken measures in all European countries to protect its network,” said a spokesperson. In response to alleged Russian sabotage, Poland’s Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski announced the closure of a Russian consulate and warned of further action if these incidents continue.

Russian Response and International Tensions

Russia’s foreign ministry dismissed the accusations, calling Poland’s consulate closure a “hostile step.” Tensions remain high as European countries react to what they perceive as Russian test runs targeting US cargo flights and infrastructure in an escalating campaign of hybrid warfare.

The European Union is closely monitoring the situation as investigations continue. With the threat of further incidents, security agencies across Europe remain on high alert, prepared to counter future attempts to disrupt cargo transportation.

The alleged Russian test runs targeting US cargo flights demonstrate the potential risks in international logistics and underscore the importance of enhanced security measures in courier services. As these incidents unfold, the world watches closely for further developments in this high-stakes international investigation.