Czech police are investigating a fire at a defense factory in Pardubice as a deliberate attack, with authorities examining a possible Russian connection. The blaze damaged production facilities and stored products but did not disrupt the planned delivery of 40 attack drones to Ukraine.

The incident followed emails sent to Czech media outlets by a group claiming responsibility and protesting the manufacturing of weapons for Israel. The defense company said it does not produce equipment for Israel and has no cooperation with an Israeli defense firm, despite earlier discussions that never materialized.

According to local media reports, preliminary information suggests the true target may have been the company’s drone production for Ukraine, with the anti Israel claim serving as a cover. Police are reviewing multiple possible motives and have not commented further on the potential Russian link, while Moscow has previously denied involvement in similar incidents across Europe.