There is skepticism about remarks made by Janina Ochojska, a Polish MEP affiliated with KO, as described in a conversation on Salon Dziennikarski. The discussion referenced statements attributed to Ochojska about alleged mass graves and the treatment of illegal migrants near the Belarussian border, including claims of bodies found in border areas and hundreds of missing migrants. The tone suggested these assertions could influence international coverage, noting how outlets like Russia Today might amplify such claims.
In a TOK FM interview, Ochojska reportedly maintained that there are mass graves of illegal migrants in the Białowieża region. She has frequently spoken about the discovery of bodies in border zones and has discussed the fate of migrants who disappeared, including references to dozens of corpses found near border areas and the ongoing concern about many others who remain unaccounted for.
The discussion also touched on the possibility that some victims of border closures might have been collected to obscure evidence, a claim that was aired by the speaker. Ochojska was described as suggesting that forest rangers were involved in removing bodies from forests, a point that drew further scrutiny from critics.
Efforts to tarnish Poland’s reputation?
Maciej Pawlicki argued that Ochojska’s actions could be interpreted as an attempt to damage Poland’s reputation after she helped Ukrainians flee the country. The dialogue suggested concern that Poland’s stance on a humanitarian transfer channel during the crisis could have altered Ukraine’s path, positing that opposing certain policies might have influenced the broader conflict in Europe. The speaker noted that Poland did not align with those policies and implied that compliance might have changed the course of the war, a claim that was presented as a reflection on national priorities during a time of conflict.
The director of the outlet emphasized that the commentary highlighted a perceived lack of understanding within Polish leadership about the country being under attack and the ongoing pressures it faced. The discussion included the assertion that Poland had faced and continued to face external aggression, framed as a warning about accepting outside policy directions.
Mass graves?
Marcin Wikło expressed surprise at the figure cited by Ochojska, noting that she mentioned 300 bodies and wondering why the count wasn’t higher. He suggested that the narrative could expand if more time passed, arguing that sensational claims often accompany ongoing conflict. He described the potential for public sentiment to shift, pointing out that dramatic imagery can serve as a precursor to broader war dynamics. The point was made that border crossings exist for those seeking entry, and if someone is found in a forested area, immediate safety considerations precede any formal procedures.
Charity or political activity?
Piotr Semka drew attention to what he described as a blend of charitable work with political engagement. He recalled a 1990s humanitarian convoy, noting that the effort carried a strong political dimension. He compared the situation to other public figures who combine philanthropy with political action, suggesting that the dual role complicates how their motives are perceived. The conversation echoed the idea that some accusations against authorities could be amplified by sympathetic media, aligning with broader geopolitical narratives.
— the discussion continued with a cautionary note about how such narratives might be amplified by international media.
Additional context related to the topic was referenced as a continuation of the broader debate surrounding Ochojska and related humanitarian actions.
- Ochojska remains cited for controversial statements about migrants at the border, with critics labeling certain assertions as misleading or politically convenient according to their perspective.
Tue