British intelligence agencies are monitoring the Kremlin after a prominent critic of President Vladimir Putin was assassinated in Poland. The victim, a former Russian politician who had been living in exile, was killed outside his home in Warsaw on Tuesday evening. Polish authorities have launched a murder investigation, and the UK government has issued a warning about Russian coercion tactics.
The assassination has raised concerns about the reach of the Russian state outside its borders. A senior Foreign Office official stated that the UK is working closely with its allies to assess the implications and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice. The official added that the incident fits a pattern of hostile state activity by Russia, including targeted killings and intimidation of dissidents abroad.
The victim, identified as 48 year old Mikhail Petrov, was a vocal critic of the Kremlin and had been granted asylum in Poland. He had recently spoken out against the war in Ukraine. No group has claimed responsibility, but Polish intelligence has indicated that Russian state actors may be involved.
The UK Government has updated its travel advice for Poland, urging vigilance. The development comes amid heightened tensions between Russia and NATO. British intelligence is expected to brief the National Security Council on the matter in the coming days.
