The United States State Department has issued a statement regarding former Polish Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro’s entry into the country, citing visa confidentiality despite close bilateral ties with Poland.
US Response to Visa Inquiries
Following reports of Zbigniew Ziobro’s arrival in the United States, the US State Department responded to inquiries from Polish Radio correspondent Marek Wałkuski. The press office initially referred the journalist’s query from the White House to the State Department for an official response.
In a prepared statement, the department emphasized that the United States and Poland share close political, economic, and social ties rooted in a long-standing friendship between their governments and peoples. However, officials explicitly stated that they would not provide any information regarding Ziobro’s visa due to the confidential nature of visa data.
Travel via Geneva Passport
Zbigniew Ziobro’s attorney confirmed that the politician utilized a so-called Geneva passport to travel to the United States after leaving Hungary. This follows the invalidation of his diplomatic and private passports by Polish authorities after his parliamentary immunity was waived at the request of the prosecution.
National Prosecutor’s Office spokesperson Przemysław Nowak stated that law enforcement had anticipated Ziobro’s departure and announced that an official inquiry would be sent to US authorities. The Polish government seeks to determine the exact circumstances under which the former minister gained entry into the United States.
Criminal Charges and Justice Fund Investigation
The former Justice Minister faces 26 charges, including leading an organized criminal group. These allegations involve significant irregularities in the management of the Justice Fund, which was legally intended to assist crime victims but was allegedly diverted to political interests.
Investigations suggest that funds were funneled to individuals and institutions linked to the Sovereign Poland and Law and Justice (PiS) parties. Ziobro, who had been residing in Hungary until recently, confirmed on Sunday that he is now located in the United States.
