Spain: Letter bombs sent to establishments with Ukraine, government, and defense links, Dec. 1 /update 1

Event

Letter bombs have been sent to addresses in Spain, as of early Dec. 1. Each location has a defense or Ukraine conflict link. The suspect packages were sent to:

• Ukrainian Embassy, Madrid: a letter bomb exploded on Nov. 30, causing minor injuries to one person.

• Instalaza, Zaragoza: a letter bomb was received on Nov. 30 by this defense contractor.

• Torrejon de Ardoz air base, Madrid: a letter bomb was discovered on Dec. 1, addressed to the EU Satellite Center located in this facility.

The Spanish Ministry of Interior also revealed that a letter bomb, sent to President Pedro Sanchez, was intercepted Nov. 24. One report indicates that a fifth package was sent to the Ministry of Defense. Authorities have not yet indicated a suspected source of this letter bomb campaign.

These incidents will likely prompt significantly increased security procedures in government buildings, at Ukrainian and other diplomatic missions, and at defense-related locations across Spain. Emergency teams will respond quickly to any incident and investigations will continue. Security cordons will likely be established around potential target locations and localized traffic disruption is possible. Authorities in other countries that provide support to Ukraine will likely review and increase their security measures.

Advice

Avoid areas of heightened security. Follow local travel and security advice. Plan for increased security at government buildings, defense establishments, embassies, and other diplomatic premises in Spain, and allow extra time for travel.