Poland and Baltic states step up critical infrastructure security over fears of Russian provocations

Lithuania, Poland and other Baltic states have reinforced security around dams, power stations and natural gas facilities, amid concerns that Russia could attempt so-called "false-flag" attacks designed to create confusion and division within NATO, Reuters reported.

Lithuanian military intelligence reportedly obtained information suggesting Russia is considering strikes in the Baltic region using captured Ukrainian drones, aiming to disguise their true origin. Several NATO countries on the alliance's eastern flank have recently issued public warnings that they possess intelligence pointing to potential Russian provocations, possibly involving military action.

Protection of key sites

Since June 18, Lithuania's armed forces have been assisting the national Public Security Service in guarding the liquefied natural gas terminal in Klaipėda, the LitPol Link electricity interconnection substation with Poland in Alytus, a transformer substation in the Alytus district, and the Kruonis Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Power Plant. Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas signed an order on July 17 extending this security support until August 19, authorising deployment of a unit of up to 30 troops with vehicles and a vessel.

In Latvia, security has been increased around all critical infrastructure, including a dam on the Daugava River near Riga and the Inčukalns underground gas storage facility, Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs confirmed to Reuters.

Forged documents investigated in Poland

Polish energy company Orlen is reviewing alternative gas import routes in case its regular supply channels or infrastructure come under threat. Orlen brings in roughly 80% of Poland's gas through the Świnoujście LNG terminal and an undersea pipeline carrying Norwegian gas. Grid operator Gaz-System is currently operating under heightened alert.

At Polskie Elektrownie Jądrowe, the state company developing Poland's first nuclear plant, forged corporate documents have surfaced, with a trail leading east of Poland. The company is investigating alongside intelligence and law enforcement agencies while stepping up monitoring of its planned construction site against possible sabotage. In July, Poland's grid operator and a military unit also increased security around an electricity link with Ukraine that helps stabilise its war-battered power grid.