Former Polish Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro has reportedly left Hungary for the United States following a change in the Hungarian government that threatens his political sanctuary.
Flight Following Hungarian Government Change
In January 2026, the Hungarian government under Viktor Orbán granted Zbigniew Ziobro international protection. Budapest became a political refuge for Ziobro after investigations began into the Justice Fund, supported by Orbán’s close political ties with the Law and Justice (PiS) party.
The situation shifted following parliamentary elections in Hungary. The victory of the Tisza party, led by Peter Magyar, ended Fidesz’s long-term rule. During his campaign, Magyar stated that Hungary would not be an “asylum for international criminals” and insisted that Ziobro and his former deputy, Marcin Romanowski, should return to Poland to face justice.
Spotted at Newark Airport
According to right-wing media and TVN24, Ziobro left Hungary on Saturday and traveled to the USA on a visa. It was emphasized that he did not receive political asylum in the United States, meaning a visa does not provide protection against potential extradition proceedings.
A photo sent by a viewer to TVN24 reportedly shows Ziobro at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey. While Ziobro has not released an official statement, he previously told Polsat News in mid-April that he might leave Hungary after the change in power.
Investigation into the Justice Fund
Ziobro is central to one of the most high-profile investigations by Polish prosecutors regarding the Justice Fund. While the fund was intended to support crime victims, investigators allege it became a mechanism for financing organizations and projects politically linked to the United Right camp.
Prosecutors charge Ziobro with leading an organized criminal group and abusing his position as Minister of Justice. He is accused of 26 crimes, including ordering subordinates to break the law, influencing contests, and granting multi-million dollar subsidies to entities that did not meet formal requirements.
European Arrest Warrant and Legal Challenges
In February 2026, the District Court for Warsaw-Mokotów ordered the temporary arrest of the former minister. Consequently, the prosecution issued a wanted notice and applied for a European Arrest Warrant (ENA).
If the ENA is formally issued, Ziobro will be pursued across the European Union. Extradition from the United States is more complex, as it depends on separate international agreements and the involvement of the American judiciary.
Experts note that while being in the USA may hinder the swift return of the former minister, it does not guarantee total safety. Investigators also remain focused on former Deputy Justice Minister Marcin Romanowski, who was also in Hungary and is sought for extradition to Poland.
