President Andrzej Duda spoke at a market square ceremony in Włodawa, acknowledging the distress caused by mischaracterizations aimed at Poland and its border guards. He noted the presence of decorated border guards among the attendees, including two female officers who were attacked and injured while on duty. He emphasized that the purpose of such turmoil is not only a personal affront to the officers but also a broader harm to their families and to the nation itself.
“This is the price that is sometimes paid by an officer who diligently fulfills his duties, and unfortunately also by his family members,” he stated, thanking the uniformed officers for their service. He added that he felt deep regret and sadness over the situation, speaking as a citizen and, above all, as the president responsible for Poland’s security, territorial integrity, and border stability.
According to the president, officers are being humiliated and blamed, and there are attempts to “trample on the dignity of the Polish uniform and our state symbols.”
He underscored that Poland is a democracy, where people have the right to hold their own opinions. Yet, some voices, driven by strong beliefs, resort to lies and slander, spreading falsehoods that harm Poland and affect officials and their loved ones. He called this behavior mean-spirited.
The limits of freedom
The president questioned whether certain expressions fall within the boundaries of freedom of speech and, in his view, found this to be a debatable point. He suggested that artistic expressions should not cross lines that distort truth, especially when falsehoods spread beyond Poland’s borders.
“No one will lie to Poland and no one will deceive Poland, especially the prudent ones who soberly assess the surrounding reality and understand the situation,” he noted. He also indicated that not everyone abroad needs to be fully aware of all developments at the Polish-Belarusian border.
There was speculation that some lies serve to advance particular agendas, particularly by those who seek to harm Poland by crafting a misleading image of the country and its officials. The president left no doubt that such tactics are unacceptable.
In closing, the president reaffirmed his commitment to the safety of Polish citizens and the stability of the border, while highlighting the important role of uniformed officers in defending the nation’s future and protecting families across the country.
Source references and visual materials from the event were noted in coverage by journalism partners and news agencies, reflecting the ongoing public interest in border security and the welfare of those who safeguard it.