Polish Justice Minister Waldemar Żurek has voiced frustration over a lack of cooperation from US authorities regarding the whereabouts and status of Zbigniew Ziobro, warning that anyone assisting him will face consequences.
Unanswered Questions from an Ally
Minister Waldemar Żurek has admitted that Polish authorities are struggling to obtain information from the United States regarding former Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro. Despite media reports suggesting that US officials may have assisted Ziobro’s transit from Hungary to the US, Poland has yet to receive any official confirmation from its American counterpart.
Polish prosecutors have formally requested details concerning Ziobro’s location, his entry status, and his current residency in the US. To date, not a single confirmed piece of information has been provided by the American side, leading the Minister to characterize the current communication with the ally as highly problematic.
Legal Accountability for Aiding and Abetting
Minister Żurek stressed that Zbigniew Ziobro remains a wanted individual in Poland. He issued a stern warning that any persons found to be assisting the former minister will be held criminally liable for their actions, although he noted that the reports of US aid remain unconfirmed media accounts at this stage.
The Minister also emphasized that the Polish state must adhere to strict procedural standards. He warned that Ziobro’s legal counsel is actively waiting for a procedural error by the Polish state that could be exploited in court, forcing the government to act with extreme caution.
Extradition Hurdles and Diplomatic Pressure
While an extradition request is currently being prepared, the Minister acknowledged that the process is complicated by the practices of American federal courts, which may demand a final, legally binding arrest warrant before proceeding. Żurek expressed his surprise at the alleged support Ziobro has received, suggesting that if such assistance occurred, the US should review the extensive evidence gathered by Polish investigators.
Looking ahead, the Minister noted that the American administration may eventually face public scrutiny regarding why they appear to be providing a protective umbrella for Ziobro. Zbigniew Ziobro, who faces 26 charges, confirmed his presence in the US in May 2026, claiming his travel is based on asylum documentation obtained in Hungary.