Poland faces questions about government leadership and Russia influence
A government spokesperson commented on TVN24 Tuesday, addressing claims about Jarosław Kaczyński and the stance of PiS. The official suggested that Moscow would prefer to see PiS unable to govern, and noted that the Kremlin might welcome a resignation from Poland’s defense leadership. He emphasized that decisions by the Commission for the Investigation of Russian Influence are later reviewed by the courts. He rejected the idea that the committee’s ruling could bar a politician from running for the Sejm.
Kremlin preferences and the defense ministry
During a press briefing in Kopczany, a TVN24 reporter questioned whether Jarosław Kaczyński still trusted Mariusz Błaszczak after remnants of a missile were found near Bydgoszcz months earlier. Kaczyński responded that Moscow would be pleased to see the defense minister leave his post, signaling distrust of the minister’s leadership. In a later appearance on TVN24, the government spokesperson asked if Moscow would be happy about Błaszczak’s resignation, arguing that a withdrawal could align with Kremlin interests.
The spokesperson asserted that Moscow seeks a government like PiS in Poland to be unable to govern, pointing to the region along the Polish-Belarusian border and the broader context of migration and Russia’s actions in Ukraine as reasons why Poland stands against such moves. He added that the Kremlin would welcome the departure of the defense minister during wartime near Poland’s eastern border, regardless of other considerations.
Media, questions, and press independence
At a press conference, TVN24 editors issued a statement defending journalistic independence and press criticism. They argued that questions of public importance should be fostered and that journalists serve the public interest, asserting their constitutional duty to monitor public institutions. The editors warned of legal action to protect journalists and the integrity of TVN’s name in response to what they described as attempts to discredit their reporting.
PiS spokesperson Rafał Bochenek later commented that TVN often manipulates coverage and constructs an alternate reality, while maintaining that journalists have the right to pose questions and the public has the right to express opinions. He praised recent measures strengthening Poland’s defense and highlighted the modernization of the military and defense industry since 2015, including upgrades to troops and equipment and the expansion of domestic manufacturing capacity.
Defense strength amid political scrutiny
Bochenek reiterated that Prime Minister Mariusz Błaszczak enjoys the backing of President Jarosław Kaczyński, and he linked ongoing attacks to Russia’s political objectives. He argued that several weapons contracts and the defense shield at Redzikowo contribute to national security, noting that some opponents of missile defense had not contributed meaningfully to defense efforts in recent years. The assertion emphasized that the country’s security posture has grown under current leadership.
Judicial review and constitutional safeguards
The government spokesperson also addressed the Commission to Investigate Russian Influences and the related constitutional procedures. He stated that every commission decision is subject to judicial review, ensuring that individuals can challenge committee rulings in court and seek suspensions if needed. He stressed that, under the constitution, those convicted of crimes tend to be barred from Sejm elections, clarifying that no one is prevented from running solely by committee decisions.
U.S. concerns and constitutional clarity
The spokesperson was questioned about a U.S. State Department statement urging Warsaw to ensure the commission does not limit voters or undermine electoral legitimacy. He replied by citing Article 99(3) of the Polish constitution, which allows a deputy candidate to run unless legally convicted, and asserted that Poland would keep partners informed and transparent about this issue.
Commission timelines and scope
Questions about the deadline for the committee to present its first report are noted. The spokesperson indicated that the commission would report on its current work in September, with the understanding that the committee may operate beyond the elections, given the need for thorough review of ongoing activities and evidence.
Legislation and the mission of the Russian Influences Commission
The Sejm approved a law establishing the State Commission for the Study of Russian Influences on internal security for the years 2007 to 2022, with setup beginning in December of the previous year. The Senate later rejected the bill, and the Sejm subsequently voted against the Senate’s resolution. The commission would analyze government actions, share information with third parties where appropriate, and review decisions that may have been influenced by Russian interests. Potential powers included revoking administrative decisions, restricting control over public funds for up to ten years, and limiting security clearances for a decade.