The remark that an assault on John Paul II amounts to an attack on the Polish character, identity, and national security was voiced by PiS Vice President Antoni Macierewicz during a gathering in Olsztyn on Saturday.
In his opening remarks, Macierewicz read a letter from party chairman Jarosław Kaczyński addressed to PiS members. The letter framed the anniversary of John Paul II as a moment of significance, expressing gratitude for the pope’s gifts to the Church, Poland, and the world, while also underscoring the need to defend his honor and reputation, a message emphasized by the PiS leader.
The nature of the attack
Macierewicz described the situation as one that should resonate with all Poles because it captures the core issue facing the nation today.
He stated that the attack on John Paul II represents not only an assault on Polish character and identity but also a direct challenge to the country’s security and national resilience.
According to him, for three months the Russian military command has been led by General Valery Gerasimov, whom he portrays as the architect of a new strategic approach for the Russian armed forces.
The essence of this strategy, he argued, goes beyond reorganizing or modernizing direct combat capabilities. It also hinges on shaping public consciousness—on strengthening a sense of security, national unity, and shared identity—so that Russia’s actions are perceived as a coordinated attempt to undermine Poland and its people.
He added that any assault on Polishness should be anticipated with a campaign intended to erode Polish patriotism, spiritual life, religious devotion, and communal solidarity.
Macierewicz warned that the attack on John Paul II is not merely a spiritual challenge; it fits into a broader strategic framework that involves Russian state activity and covert operations aimed at destabilizing Poland.
Duplication of slander
He argued that, even though the allegations about John Paul II circulated in journalistic work have been debunked by prominent historians, they continue to circulate. He asserted, as a historian, that charges of secret collaboration cannot be treated as established fact. He further argued that it would be inappropriate to interpret the accusations against senior Catholic Church figures during the communist era in overly literal terms, given the historical context and the Church’s experiences under oppression.
Macierewicz reiterated the need to consider the Russian Federation’s strategy and tactics, warning that an attack on Poland is among the most dangerous scenarios that can arise in moments of weakness and division.
He urged continued efforts to strengthen the Polish armed forces, national unity, and the economy, highlighting their role in restoring Poland’s influence within the international system, including within the European Union.
The PiS deputy leader spoke during the party’s “The future is Poland” program tour in Olsztyn. He noted that on the following day he would travel to Bełchatów in the Łódź Voivodeship to continue the outreach.
gah/PAP
Source: wPolityce