Russian special services behind the arson of the IKEA store in Vilnius.

The Lithuanian Prosecutor's Office accused the Russian military intelligence of the arson of the IKEA store in Vilnius

The Lithuanian Prosecutor's Office stated that the Russian military intelligence, specifically the Main Intelligence Agency (GRU), is behind the arson of the IKEA store in Vilnius, which occurred in May 2024. Prosecutor Artūras Urbelis called this act 'terroristic' and stated that it has serious consequences.

Ukraine and Lithuania remain loyal allies in light of the conflict with Russia

Lithuania, a NATO member, in turn, remains a loyal ally of Ukraine during the conflict with Russia. Ukraine and Lithuania had previously warned of possible sabotage attempts by Moscow. Such statements were made in light of events that began in February 2022.

Detained Ukrainian citizens and their connection to Russia

In the case of the IKEA arson, two Ukrainian citizens were detained, one in Lithuania and the other in Poland. According to the prosecutor's office, the organizers of these crimes are located in Russia and are associated with military intelligence and law enforcement agencies. In particular, the person detained in Lithuania is suspected of arriving in Poland in spring 2024, where he met with another individual, and together they agreed to set fire to and blow up shopping centers in Lithuania and Latvia.

Poland investigates diversions

The Polish authorities are investigating about 30 probable acts of diversion. The Prime Minister of Poland, Donald Tusk, accused Russia of using Ukrainians to organize diversions, calling it an 'exceptionally insidious' move.

'Dear allies, the investigation by the Lithuanian Prosecutor's Office has confirmed our suspicions: behind the arsons of shopping centers in Vilnius and Warsaw are Russian special services,' wrote Tusk.