On 10 October 2023, the U.S. State Department revoked its invitation to Polish journalist Jakub Wiech, a move the writer claims was orchestrated by Polish politicians.
US Revokes State Department Invitation
On 10 October, the editor‑in‑chief of Energetyka24.com announced that the U.S. State Department had withdrawn the invitation that Jakub Wiech had received a few weeks earlier for the International Visitor Leadership Program. According to Wiech, the decision was made abruptly and reportedly pushed by a group of Polish politicians. Official reasons for the revocation were not provided.
First‑Hand Account of the International Visitor Leadership Program
Wiech explained that the program would have taken him across the United States to observe the contemporary energy sector. He described his disappointment at the sudden withdrawal and suggested that the move was a form of retaliation for his journalistic work, reflecting an internal conflict within Polish public life. As a consequence, Poland currently has no representation in the IVLP’s energy section.
Polish Coalition Reacts with Outrage
Polish politicians condemned the move, calling it a “shameful disgrace on multiple levels.” Energy Minister Miłosz Motyka declared that the U.S. administration should support compatriots abroad, invoking patriotism as a matter of action rather than rhetoric. Climate and Environment Minister Paulina Hennig‑Kloska added that those who harm Poles abroad harm Poland itself, labeling the incident as weak on politics. European Parliament member Dariusz Joński called for an investigation, while others in the coalition warned that the act damaged Poland’s image internationally.
Commentary from Media Figures
Freelance blogger Paweł Rybicki, former TV host and former social‑media manager for Andrzej Dudy’s campaign, expressed surprise at Wiech’s invitation to the U.S. He criticised Wiech’s frequent attacks on former President Donald Trump and his support for the European Union’s climate policies, arguing that such positions align with “right‑wing” viewpoints and are seen as exclusionary by government officials.
Political Motives and International Repercussions
The incident has sparked debate over the extent to which Polish politicians influence U.S. foreign‑policy decisions and how such actions may affect Poland’s international standing. Critics argue that domestic political maneuvering can unduly influence diplomatic relations, while supporters claim the measures were necessary to safeguard national interests.
