Russia, Poland Close Consulates in Ongoing Diplomatic Dispute

Amid escalating diplomatic tensions, Russia announced it will close the Polish consulate in Kaliningrad starting August 29 in retaliation for Poland's closure of the Russian consulate in Krakow, which Poland ordered after accusing Moscow of involvement in a 2024 fire at a Warsaw shopping center—a claim Russia denies. Polish Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Pawel Wronski condemned Russia's move as unwarranted and emphasized Poland does not engage in hostile acts like sabotage or cyberattacks against Russia. The reciprocal consulate closures underscore the worsening diplomatic relations between the two countries, further strained by Russia's offensive in Ukraine and Poland's support for Kyiv with political and military aid. Since 2023, Poland has symbolically referred to Kaliningrad as Królewiec, reflecting historical ties without territorial claims. Russia has also summoned the Polish envoy to announce the closure, framing it as a response to what it calls Poland's hostile actions, including restrictions on Russian diplomats and consulate operations in Poland. These developments illustrate the deepening diplomatic rift amid ongoing mutual accusations and retaliatory measures.