Canada expresses concerns to Russia after reports of plot to put incendiary devices on planes
The Canadian government has raised concerns with Russia after reports emerged suggesting Moscow was involved in a plot to place incendiary devices on planes flying to North America. According to the Wall Street Journal, Western security officials believe that two incendiary devices were part of a Russian operation aimed at causing fires aboard cargo or passenger planes bound for the U.S. and Canada. Both devices reportedly ignited at DHL logistics hubs in Leipzig, Germany, and Birmingham, U.K.
In response to these alarming reports, Public Safety spokesperson Tim Warmington stated, “The Government of Canada is aware of and deeply concerned with Russia’s escalating campaign, from cyber incidents and disinformation operations to sabotage activities.” He emphasized that Canada has directly expressed its concerns to Russian officials and made it clear that any threat to the safety and security of Canadians is unacceptable.
This recent revelation comes on the heels of an announcement by authorities in Poland regarding the arrest of four individuals in connection with an alleged plot to mail explosives to Canada and the United States. The group’s plans reportedly involved sending parcels containing camouflaged explosives and dangerous materials through courier companies to European Union countries and Great Britain. The aim was to test the transfer channel for such parcels, which were ultimately intended for the U.S. and Canada.
While Polish officials initially suggested that the plot was a test run for placing explosive devices on planes bound for North America, the New York Times reported that Western intelligence agencies could not confirm this intent. The Times also revealed that the plot was allegedly organized by Russia’s military agency GRU, although the exact motive remains unclear. There are concerns that the operation could have been more sinister, potentially involving actions such as destroying planes on U.S. runways, setting off bombs at U.S. warehouses, or even detonating explosives mid-flight.
Despite the absence of an immediate threat to Canadians, Warmington emphasized that Canadian national security and law enforcement agencies are collaborating closely with international partners to address this serious matter and ensure the safety of Canadians. Transport Canada, responsible for aviation security, is working diligently with various stakeholders to mitigate risks and respond promptly to any safety or security concerns that may arise.
In light of these developments, it is evident that the Canadian government is taking the situation seriously and remains vigilant in safeguarding the country’s aviation security. The RCMP has been approached for further comments on this matter.
