Poland and Baltics Boost Security Over Russian False Flag Fears

Poland and the Baltic states are rapidly increasing security around critical energy infrastructure amid intelligence warnings that Russia may be planning a "false flag" attack using Ukrainian drones to test NATO's response. The heightened measures come as U.S. intelligence assessments suggest Russian President Vladimir Putin might attempt a limited assault on a NATO country to fracture the alliance, a scenario considered low-probability but growing more likely as the war in Ukraine continues.

Lithuania, Poland, Latvia, and Estonia have all warned of potential sabotage. Lithuanian Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas stated that his country is "not naive" and is "doing our homework" to protect vital sites. Last month, Lithuania dispatched military units to back up riot police in securing its liquefied natural gas import terminal, an oil products terminal, a key power link with Poland, and the Kruonis Pumped Storage hydro plant. "We are clearly signaling that, if needed, we will be defending ourselves," Kaunas said.

Latvia has also stepped up security around all critical infrastructure, including the Daugava River dam near Riga and the Incukalns underground gas storage facility. Prime...