Poland’s government says Russia sought, through hybrid attacks, to cause a cascading shutdown of electricity across the country.
Poland reported an attempted large-scale cyberattack from Russia that could have led to a nationwide blackout in late December, Digital Affairs Minister Krzysztof Gawkowski said in an interview with RMF FM radio, discussing the final days of 2025.
He said the attack targeted energy infrastructure and could have cut power to millions during the New Year holiday period. The minister called it the most serious threat on record.
“Digital tanks are already here. We were very close to a power shutdown,” he told RMF FM.
Energy Minister Miłosz Motyka previously shared similar details, saying the final days of the year saw the largest hacking assault on Poland’s power system in several years. According to the ministry, attackers tried to interfere with operations at one thermal power plant and also targeted numerous renewable energy facilities across different regions.
Polish authorities say the aim was to disrupt communications between elements of the power grid, potentially triggering a chain reaction leading to a large-scale blackout. Quick action by specialists and protective systems helped avert the worst-case scenario.
Officials in Warsaw say such actions fit into a broader strategy of hybrid pressure from Russia, with hackers used as a tool against critical infrastructure. Poland plans to bolster its cybersecurity and continue working with allies to prevent similar threats.
