Controversial Polish politician Grzegorz Braun participated in the Polish Parade in Vilnius, Lithuania, sparking criticism from Lithuanian officials and media.
Braun’s Presence at the Polish Parade
Lithuanian media reported on Saturday’s Polish parade, which began at the Sejm of the Republic of Lithuania and proceeded towards the Gate of Dawn. A delegation from the Confederation Crown of Poland, including Grzegorz Braun, joined the thousands of participants, despite prior criticism of his planned visit.
The Polish Parade is a significant event for the Polish community in Lithuania, coinciding with the Day of Polonia and the anniversary of the Constitution of May 3rd.
Lithuanian Criticism of Braun
Lithuanian media highlighted Braun’s past controversial statements regarding Lithuania, Ukraine, and the European Union. Lrytas.lt cited a post from his X account where he disparagingly described modern Lithuania and called for a halt to the “Lithuanization of Vilnius.” He has also criticized Warsaw’s support for Kyiv and opposes what he terms the “Ukrainization of Poland.”
Official Opposition to the Visit
Vilnius Mayor Valdas Benkunskas expressed opposition to the Confederation Crown of Poland’s planned event. He questioned why a politician critical of Europe and its values would seek to enjoy freedom of travel and a platform for his views in Vilnius.
Security Assessment
The Lithuanian State Security Department stated there was no direct threat to national security but assessed that Braun’s activities and statements, along with those of his associates, could pose a risk to public order and conflict with Lithuania’s national security interests.
Failed Meeting with Supporters
Attempts to organize a meeting between Braun and his supporters in Vilnius faced difficulties. An initial reservation at a Franciscan monastery was canceled after it was discovered the event was political in nature.
Subsequently, Braun’s supporters announced a gathering at Vincas Kudirka Square, but Braun himself was absent. A small group briefly assembled before dispersing, stating the politician was “on the way.”
Counter-Protests
Opponents of Braun’s visit also gathered at Vincas Kudirka Square, displaying banners with slogans such as “Get out of Vilnius” and “Braun, go home.” They criticized his divisive and offensive statements about Lithuania.
Braun’s Remarks on the Parade and Future Plans
Braun praised the Polish Parade, stating Vilnius was prioritizing quality over quantity. He lauded the organization and the presence of Polish schools and institutions. He also suggested his group might consider establishing a branch of the Confederation Crown of Poland in Vilnius.
Statements on Polish Identity and Lithuania
Braun argued that the Polish community in Lithuania represents a high concentration of Polish identity, even surpassing some cities within Poland’s current borders. He stated that Lithuanians hadn’t emigrated, but rather the border had shifted.
Włodzimierz Skalik, a member of the Confederation Crown of Poland, emphasized the importance of supporting Poles in Lithuania and criticized the Lithuanian government for not creating favorable conditions for them, blaming Polish authorities for neglecting the Polish minority.
Braun’s Views on Polish-Lithuanian Relations
Braun expressed his dissatisfaction with the current state of Polish-Lithuanian relations, criticizing the governments in Warsaw and Vilnius for their involvement in the war and their policies towards Poles. He stated the current situation falls short of the needs and expectations of both nations.
Official Confirmation of Braun’s Presence
Waldemar Tomaszewski, head of the Association of Poles in Lithuania, confirmed Braun’s presence in Vilnius, noting he was not on the list of official guests but the event was open to all.
In addition to Braun, several other Polish politicians attended the parade, including Jakub Stefaniak, Piotr Adamowicz, Grzegorz Płaczek, Andrzej Zapałowski, and Tadeusz Samborski.