Polish government accuses right-wing politicians of stirring up hatred towards Ukrainians

Polish government spokesman Adam Szłapka believes the rise in cases of violence against Ukrainians is linked to the rhetoric and actions of right-wing politicians.

As reported by Ukrinform, Szłapka noted that politicians from the right-wing camp have created an atmosphere of impunity and effectively given society "permission to hate".

"Such sentiments and such a sense of impunity do not arise without a reason," the official stressed.

He argued that Jarosław Kaczyński, the leader of the Law and Justice party, had opened the door to representatives of radical groups in Polish politics and that some right-wing politicians are increasingly echoing the rhetoric of Grzegorz Braun, a far-right nationalist with pro-Russian views.

"All of this constitutes actions that, in the public space, effectively give permission to hate," Szłapka said.

He emphasised that the Polish government fundamentally disagrees with such approaches and will resolutely counter manifestations of hatred and violence.

The government spokesman also criticised President Karol Nawrocki, saying he has been silent about recent attacks on Ukrainians despite previously praising organised football hooligan brawls as "a noble form of struggle".

"The United Right camp let this genie out of the bottle, and we are seeing the consequences of this on the streets. These are simply barbaric actions on the part of politicians. Their consequences are very brutal, but we will fight this with complete uncompromisingness," Szłapka stressed.

A group of Polish men recently attacked a young Ukrainian couple in Wrocław, reportedly after hearing their accent.

In connection with this attack, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk urged President Nawrocki "to break his silence on this".