Alleged Russian Plot for Terrorist Attack On US-Bound Flights In 2024

Alleged Russian Plot for Terrorist Attacks on US-Bound Flights in 2024 Yes, Western intelligence agencies and governments reported in late 2024 that Russia's military intelligence service (GRU) was behind a foiled plot to carry out sabotage and terrorist attacks on passenger and cargo flights bound for the United States, potentially on a scale comparable to the 9/11 attacks. The plan was attributed to President Vladimir Putin's regime as part of its hybrid warfare strategy amid the Ukraine conflict, aimed at deterring Western support for Kyiv. No attacks materialized, and the Kremlin has denied involvement. Key Details of the Plot Timeline: The sabotage campaign began testing in summer 2024 (notably July), with fires at international shipping hubs serving as "dry runs." Arrests of suspected operatives occurred in Poland by November 2024, and US warnings to Moscow followed in the fall. Methods: Russian agents allegedly used incendiary devices—disguised in everyday items like modified electronic massagers containing a flammable magnesium-based substance—to ignite parcels in air cargo holds. These were shipped via commercial routes (e.g., DHL) to bypass security, targeting flights to the US and Canada. One incident nearly caused a plane crash in Germany when a parcel ignited pre-flight. Incidents and Foiling: Fires erupted at DHL facilities in Leipzig, Germany; Birmingham, UK; and a site in Poland—all linked to the same devices. Four individuals were arrested in Poland and charged with sabotage or terrorism on behalf of a foreign intelligence agency (identified as Russia). Enhanced cargo screening and intelligence sharing among NATO allies prevented escalation to actual flights. Scale and Intent: Officials feared mid-air explosions or runway destructions could kill hundreds, marking a major escalation in Russia's asymmetric tactics against the West. Broader Context This fits a pattern of alleged Russian hybrid attacks in 2024, including arson, cyberattacks, and GPS jamming across Europe. In January 2025, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk publicly confirmed the plot's scope, stating Russia planned "acts of air terror" globally, not just against Poland. The US responded with direct diplomatic pressure, warning of severe retaliation if executed. These reports come from credible outlets citing security officials, though full details remain classified. No evidence ties Putin personally to operational planning, but such actions fall under his strategic oversight.