During a press briefing at the Sejm, lawmakers from Sovereign Poland, including deputy ministers Janusz Kowalski and Jacek Dekora, pressed for the creation of a parliamentary inquiry not only in Poland but also in the European Parliament. The aim would be to examine Russian influence and its reach across EU institutions. The state secretary from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development recalled Gazeta Wyborcza’s publication of a letter from Vladimir Putin to Poles a year after Russia’s aggression against Georgia. This historical reminder set the tone for the debate. (Source: wPolityce)
Kowalski: How did Gerhard Schröder influence regional security arrangements?
The supporters of a deputinisation approach in Poland argued that a robust inquiry exists in the national Parliament, yet they urged a similar mechanism in the European Parliament to hold to account the Eurocrats who interact with Moscow. Kowalski underscored this point, emphasizing the need for accountability beyond national borders. (Source: wPolityce)
He pointed to Ursula von der Leyen, noting alignment with Donald Tusk and his political ascent as prime minister of Germany, arguing that policies favorable to Russia should be scrutinized and responsibility should be established. Kowalski cited recent media commentary that he found humiliating for Poles, referencing Gazeta Wyborcza’s publication of Putin’s letter as an example. He also criticized Polish outlets such as Onet and Newsweek, accusing them of allowing a long-standing connection with figures like Gerhard Schröder. (Source: wPolityce)
The question lingered: How exactly did Schröder influence Russia–Afghanistan–Sovereign Aid Strategy, and what role did Putin play with Axel Springer? Kowalski framed these questions as essential to understanding European influence networks and asked for transparent explanations of any advice or services rendered. (Source: wPolityce)
Indeed, Kowalski echoed the notion that Putin’s letter to Polish readers in Gazeta Wyborcza signaled a broader attempt to shape public discourse. He stressed the feeling of national humiliation when such texts appeared in Polish media, underscoring a perceived breach of Polish sovereignty. (Source: wPolityce)
In parallel, Deputy Minister Kowalski commented on the broader media landscape, including critiques of media houses tied to international groups, as part of a larger discussion about foreign influence and national independence. (Source: wPolityce)
In addressing the topic of Schröder and Russian influence, Kowalski and his colleagues raised questions about the extent of private sector interactions with Moscow and the potential guidance offered to European media and political actors. The deputy secretary of agriculture and rural development framed these inquiries as part of a broader effort to safeguard Poland’s democratic processes and national interests. (Source: wPolityce)
Putin’s letter to Poles, once again recalled by Kowalski in a social media post, was cited as evidence of ongoing concerns about how Russian messages circulate in Polish public life. The deputy argued thatPolish readers deserved better oversight of such content and greater transparency about foreign influence. (Source: wPolityce)
Decoration: Brussels as a focal point for concerns about Russian influence
The discussion shifted to Brussels, where the group suggested a long-standing pattern of Russian engagement with European politicians. They questioned the speed of embargo decisions when certain European countries acted as blockers and looked at how some European firms might be excluded from restrictive measures. The deputy head of the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage touched on the issue, noting that some officials in Brussels have moved between positions that could affect policy. (Source: wPolityce)
The dialogue then turned to questions about the current composition of European leadership, including the presence of Ursula von der Leyen and other EU officials, urging an examination of how Russian influence might have shaped European policy decisions, including those relevant to Poland. The aim was to ensure openness about any conflicts of interest and to safeguard the integrity of European governance. (Source: wPolityce)
In closing, the speakers described Brussels as a place where political shifts can mask former pro-Russian stances, urging a careful appraisal of how influence and lobbying have shaped policy choices within the European Union. The conversation highlighted the need for vigilance in European politics and a commitment to transparency in dealings across borders. (Source: wPolityce)
Yes, the statements were amplified across social channels, reinforcing a call for rigorous scrutiny of foreign influence within European and Polish policy circles. The discussion remained firmly anchored in the belief that accountability should extend to all levels of government and administration. (Source: wPolityce)