Today, on behalf of its 27 Member States, the European Union has published a Declaration condemning Russia for cyber activities against Ukraine. Similar statements were issued by our allies and partners from the USA, UK, Canada and Australia.

The direct cause behind this declaration was the Russian cyberattack on the satellite KA-SAT network (operated by Viasat) carried out on February 24^th, 2022, one hour before the illegal military aggression was launched against Ukraine. There is no doubt that the aim of this cyber operation was to facilitate Russian invasion as its targets included Ukraine’s public sector institutions along with Ukrainian Armed Forces. Different businesses as well as private citizens fell victim to this attack as well. The cyberattack also affected several Member States of the European Union.

Poland condemns Russia’s aggression on Ukraine in its every aspect, including with regard to operations carried out in cyberspace. Russia’s cyber activity is in flagrant contradiction to international law and to the norms of responsible state behaviour in cyberspace, adopted also by the Russian Federation within the framework of the United Nations.

Poland, the European Union, and our allies strongly condemn Russia’s malicious cyber activity and call on all actors responsible for that activity to cease it immediately. Working closely with our partners and allies, we are considering taking further steps to prevent, discourage and respond to Russia’s behaviour. Independently, as well as in cooperation with its international partners, Poland will continue supporting Ukraine’s defense capabilities in cyberspace. Russia must put an end to its aggression which causes human suffering and threatens European security.

 

Łukasz Jasina
MFA Spokesperson