Poland's FM: Ziobro's U.S. visa is political interference

Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski has publicly criticized former Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro's acquisition of a U.S. visa, labeling it political interference. Speaking at the GLOBSEC conference in Prague, Sikorski asserted that Ziobro, who is not a journalist, obtained the visa under false pretenses. Ziobro has reportedly announced plans for a tour of the United States and engagement with Polish diaspora communities.

Sikorski detailed that Ziobro faces 26 criminal charges in Poland, including allegations of misusing funds from the Justice Fund. He also referenced the controversial purchase of the Israeli Pegasus spyware, which Sikorski claimed was used against opposition politicians and journalists. "He must answer for these charges," Sikorski stated regarding the former minister.

When questioned about Ziobro's potential extradition from the U.S., Sikorski confirmed that while it's a separate process, Poland has an extradition treaty with the United States. "First, the question must be answered whether he is indeed a journalist and whether he was entitled to such a visa," Sikorski said. He added, "The United States has been strict lately with people who violate immigration rules. I hope they will be just as strict with everyone, without political connections."

Sikorski also commented on the European Union's perceived weakness in responding to the war in Ukraine, admitting that the bloc "sometimes looks pathetic" due to difficulties in reaching consensus among democratic nations. However, he argued that Vladimir Putin miscalculated Europe's resolve, stating that when Europeans make a decision and lose trust in a foreign leader, they can be exceptionally consistent. He emphasized the war's outcome will significantly shape the global balance of power, potentially establishing Europe and Ukraine as a third pole alongside China and the U.S. if Ukraine prevails.