Poland Shuts Down Russian Consulate Amid Fire Arson Allegations

Poland closes Russia’s Krakow consulate, alleging Russian-backed arson at a Warsaw shopping center last year that impacted Warsaw's Vietnamese community. The Polish government, citing evidence, holds Russia accountable for the fire. Tensions escalate as Poland warns of further actions if such attacks continue.

In a bold diplomatic move, Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski has ordered the closure of Russia's consulate in Krakow, responding to accusations of Russian involvement in a devastating fire last year.

The May 12 blaze in the Marywilska 44 shopping centre, housing 1,400 shops and impacting the Vietnamese community, has been linked to Russian arson according to Polish authorities.

Sikorski announced the closure on the fire's anniversary, underscoring Poland's intent to take more action if Russian-backed attacks persist, amidst rising European concerns over Russia's regional destabilization tactics.

(With inputs from agencies.)