Xi Jinping on Monday held talks with Polish President Andrzej Duda, who is on a state visit to China. Xi Jinping held a welcome ceremony for the Polish president outside the Great Hall of the People at the edge of Tiananmen Square in Beijing. Watch in for more details!

China-Poland meet: Leader of NATO nation Poland visits China

China's Xi meets with Polish President Duda in Beijing

Late evening, downtown Krakow goes from historic landmark to hub for stag nights, pub crawls and wild parties. Now, fed up with the ruckus, disgruntled locals are taking Poland's second city to court.

The lawsuit filed this month, with backing from several dozen residents, accuses municipal authorities of not doing enough to address disturbances to public order, including loud noise and excessive drunkenness.

"Non-compliance with the law has become a symbol of tourism in Krakow," Ryszard Rydiger, the lawyer behind the initiative, told AFP.

He likened the situation to something seen "nowhere else in Europe" and said tourists were behaving like "Tarzan from the Jungle" without consequence.&nbsp;

This is not the first time that Krakow -- visited by a whopping 9.4 million tourists in 2023, according to city estimates -- has grappled with challenges posed by its more unruly visitors.&nbsp;

Last year, there were 6,800 police interventions in the city centre, many of them for drinking alcohol and destroying public property. Two-thirds resulted in fines, according to municipal police spokesman Marek Aniol. &nbsp;

- 'Heart of darkness' -

While the lawsuit alleges that public disturbance issues are endemic to the entire Old Town, residents name Szewska Street as the problem's epicentre.&nbsp;

"Every day of the week, until six in the morning, Szewska becomes a place of noisy gatherings," reads the suit.

"The crowd, without any restrictions or effective response from city authorities, sings... shouts, fights, vomits... The noise emitted by the drunken rabble exceeds the standards permitted by law."

The initiative was a good move, according to one resident, club promoter Jan, who called Szewska the "heart of darkness".&nbsp;

"The city should intervene in some way," the 23-year-old told AFP.

Noise and mess aside, Jan said that competition among clubs for higher numbers of late-night visitors also resulted in street fights.&nbsp;

He recounted the story of a friend who worked as a promoter on Szewska but had to quit due to the "heavy trauma" of violence from rivals.

Even beyond the dead centre, late-night debauchery can pose problems for locals.

"You can't walk peacefully in the evening, or at night," said Weronika, a 25-year-old doctor.

"The peace is very disturbed."&nbsp;

- 'City of Polish kings' -

Krakow has taken steps to address the issue.

Mayor Aleksander Miszalski announced this week the appointment of a night official, as well as plans for a committee that would research the situation and offer solutions.

Last July, the city became Poland's first to ban alcohol sales from midnight until 5:30 am, a move supported by more than half of residents.&nbsp;

Police said that in the first six months, interventions were down by half and fewer intoxicated people landed in sobering-up centres.

For the past three years, Krakow has also employed "City Helpers" during the high season -- night-time volunteers tasked with providing information to tourists and calling police if need be. &nbsp;

The municipality has also released numerous advertising campaigns geared towards bringing out-of-towners into line and reducing public disturbances.&nbsp;

"Of course we need tourists," said Jan. "It's just that there needs to be appropriate legislation so that we have the tourists, but without the noise, mess and crap."&nbsp;

What began as a public safety operation in 2021 later evolved into a targeted campaign against Britons, who are known for indulging in stag nights in Krakow.

While initial posters around the city urged both residents and visitors to respect others' space, be on "good behaviour" and "keep belongings safe", the latest campaign was much more blunt.&nbsp;

"You are in the city of Polish kings," the posters read. "This deserves respect."

Rydiger said these "actions go in the right direction" but are "completely initial" in terms of addressing the problem.&nbsp;

"For years, the tourism policy has been 'come, come, come', but it has not been about setting clear boundaries on what can and cannot be done," he said.

Late evening, downtown Krakow goes from historic landmark to hub for stag nights, pub crawls and wild parties. Now, fed up with the ruckus, disgruntled locals are taking Poland's second city to court.

Late evening, downtown Krakow goes from historic landmark to hub for stag nights, pub crawls and wild parties. Now, fed up with the ruckus, disgruntled locals are taking Poland's second city to court. The lawsuit filed this month, with backing from several dozen residents, accuses municipal authorities of not doing enough to address disturbances to public order, including loud noise and excessive drunkenness. "Non-compliance with the law has become a symbol of tourism in Krakow," Ryszard Rydiger, the lawyer behind the initiative, told AFP. He likened the situation to something seen "nowhere else in Europe" and said tourists were behaving like "Tarzan from the Jungle" without consequence. This is not the first time that Krakow -- visited by a whopping 9.4 million tourists in 2023, according to city estimates -- has grappled with challenges posed by its more unruly visitors. Last year, there were 6,800 police interventions in the city centre, many of them for drinking alcohol and destroying public property. Two-thirds resulted in fines, according to municipal police spokesman Marek Aniol. - 'Heart of darkness' - While the lawsuit alleges that public disturbance issues are endemic to the entire Old Town, residents name Szewska Street as the problem's epicentre. "Every day of the week, until six in the morning, Szewska becomes a place of noisy gatherings," reads the suit. "The crowd, without any restrictions or effective response from city authorities, sings... shouts, fights, vomits... The noise emitted by the drunken rabble exceeds the standards permitted by law." The initiative was a good move, according to one resident, club promoter Jan, who called Szewska the "heart of darkness". "The city should intervene in some way," the 23-year-old told AFP. Noise and mess aside, Jan said that competition among clubs for higher numbers of late-night visitors also resulted in street fights. He recounted the story of a friend who worked as a promoter on Szewska but had to quit due to the "heavy trauma" of violence from rivals. Even beyond the dead centre, late-night debauchery can pose problems for locals. "You can't walk peacefully in the evening, or at night," said Weronika, a 25-year-old doctor. "The peace is very disturbed." - 'City of Polish kings' - Krakow has taken steps to address the issue. Mayor Aleksander Miszalski announced this week the appointment of a night official, as well as plans for a committee that would research the situation and offer solutions. Last July, the city became Poland's first to ban alcohol sales from midnight until 5:30 am, a move supported by more than half of residents. Police said that in the first six months, interventions were down by half and fewer intoxicated people landed in sobering-up centres. For the past three years, Krakow has also employed "City Helpers" during the high season -- night-time volunteers tasked with providing information to tourists and calling police if need be. The municipality has also released numerous advertising campaigns geared towards bringing out-of-towners into line and reducing public disturbances. "Of course we need tourists," said Jan. "It's just that there needs to be appropriate legislation so that we have the tourists, but without the noise, mess and crap." What began as a public safety operation in 2021 later evolved into a targeted campaign against Britons, who are known for indulging in stag nights in Krakow. While initial posters around the city urged both residents and visitors to respect others' space, be on "good behaviour" and "keep belongings safe", the latest campaign was much more blunt. "You are in the city of Polish kings," the posters read. "This deserves respect." Rydiger said these "actions go in the right direction" but are "completely initial" in terms of addressing the problem. "For years, the tourism policy has been 'come, come, come', but it has not been about setting clear boundaries on what can and cannot be done," he said.

Shouts, fights, vomit: Polish city grapples with drunk tourists

The man who was seen wielding an axe-like object before the Euro 2024 match between Netherlands and Poland on Sunday (June 16) has been charged with manslaughter. The development was shared in a statement by the Attorney General's Office in Hamburg on Monday (June 17).

Police shot the man in the leg after he did not drop the object which was defined as a pickaxe by the German police.

"The temporary confinement of the person concerned has just been ordered.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-romania-bundle-toothless-ukraine-3-0-to-kickstart-campaign-732580">Euro 2024: Romania bundle toothless Ukraine 3-0 to kickstart campaign</a>

"He is charged with attempted manslaughter and crimes under the Weapons Act. He did not provide any information about the accusation during the presentation," read the statement.

The Attorney General's statement also added that the case is&nbsp;now with the Central Office of State Security because of "the significance of the matter and the still unclear background of the crime".

The incident took place in the Reeperbahn district - a popular entertainment district in Hamburg's city centre where a police officer was initially attacked by the man. The area where almost 40,000 Dutch fans had gathered was subsequently cleared around 12:30 p.m. CET (6:30 am ET) before the security agencies shot the attacker.

Police said the man was also carrying an incendiary device, probably some kind of Molotov cocktail. The media reports said police used pepper spray against the attacker before deploying a firearm.&nbsp;

The motive of the attacker remains unknown at this stage but reports indicate that it was not related to football. The video clips of the incident have gone viral on social media and show the attacker attempting to charge at the officials who gave him ample opportunity to surrender before discharging their firearm.&nbsp;

Sunday's incident is not the first violent incident to have rocked the Euros. On the opening night of the tournament on Friday (Jun 14), a knifeman in eastern Germany killed one person and severely injured two more at a Euros party ahead of the match between Germany and Scotland.

The man who was seen wielding an axe-like object before the Euro 2024 match between Netherlands and Poland on Sunday (June 16) has been charged with manslaughter.

The man who was seen wielding an axe-like object before the Euro 2024 match between Netherlands and Poland on Sunday (June 16) has been charged with manslaughter. The development was shared in a statement by the Attorney General's Office in Hamburg on Monday (June 17). Police shot the man in the leg after he did not drop the object which was defined as a pickaxe by the German police. "The temporary confinement of the person concerned has just been ordered. Also Read: Euro 2024: Romania bundle toothless Ukraine 3-0 to kickstart campaign "He is charged with attempted manslaughter and crimes under the Weapons Act. He did not provide any information about the accusation during the presentation," read the statement. The Attorney General's statement also added that the case is now with the Central Office of State Security because of "the significance of the matter and the still unclear background of the crime". The incident took place in the Reeperbahn district - a popular entertainment district in Hamburg's city centre where a police officer was initially attacked by the man. The area where almost 40,000 Dutch fans had gathered was subsequently cleared around 12:30 p.m. CET (6:30 am ET) before the security agencies shot the attacker. Police said the man was also carrying an incendiary device, probably some kind of Molotov cocktail. The media reports said police used pepper spray against the attacker before deploying a firearm. The motive of the attacker remains unknown at this stage but reports indicate that it was not related to football. The video clips of the incident have gone viral on social media and show the attacker attempting to charge at the officials who gave him ample opportunity to surrender before discharging their firearm. Sunday's incident is not the first violent incident to have rocked the Euros. On the opening night of the tournament on Friday (Jun 14), a knifeman in eastern Germany killed one person and severely injured two more at a Euros party ahead of the match between Germany and Scotland.

Euro 2024: Axe-wielding man ahead of Netherlands vs Poland game charged with attempted manslaughter

A joint venture led by Stellantis has commenced production of electric vehicles designed by the Chinese automaker Leapmotor at Stellantis' manufacturing facility in Tychy, Poland. This information was reported by analysts at Jefferies, who cited statements made by Leapmotor's management team.

In a report released late on Sunday, Jefferies disclosed that Leapmotor's management had revealed during an analyst call that the initial units of their T03 small electric vehicle had been manufactured at Stellantis' assembly plant in Poland in the previous week. The production is reportedly on schedule to transition to mass manufacturing in September.

This development aligns with a Reuters report from March, which, based on information from two sources close to the matter, had indicated that Stellantis had selected its Polish facility as the primary production site in Europe for Leapmotor's vehicles. The decision was reportedly made primarily for cost-saving purposes.

The collaboration between Stellantis and Leapmotor has resulted in the formation of a joint venture, with the Franco-Italian automaker holding a majority stake of 51 per cent. This arrangement grants Stellantis exclusive rights to manufacture, export, and sell Leapmotor products outside of China, marking a first for a traditional Western automotive company.

This joint venture, operating under the name Leapmotor International, is a component of a broader partnership between the two companies. As part of this larger agreement, Stellantis is acquiring a 21 per cent stake in Leapmotor through a USD 1.6 billion investment.

According to Jefferies, the joint venture has plans to introduce a second Leapmotor model at Stellantis' Polish plant. The A12 SUV is scheduled to begin production in the first quarter of 2025.&nbsp;Leapmotor has initiated preparations for the localized production of components.

&nbsp;

Leapmotor's management team, as reported by Jefferies, stated that the manufacturing costs at the Polish plant are approximately 400-500 euros ( USD 428.08- USD 535.10) per vehicle. This figure is comparable to the production costs at Leapmotor's facilities in China, and significantly lower than the estimated 1,000 euros per vehicle cost at plants in Italy.

&nbsp;

For its C10 SUV model, Leapmotor intends to maintain production in China and export the vehicles to Europe in the initial stages. This strategy is based on the potential for higher pricing of this model in the European market, according to Jefferies' report.

&nbsp;

It's worth noting that the European Commission recently announced the implementation of additional duties on imported Chinese electric vehicles, set to take effect in July. For Leapmotor specifically, these new tariffs will result in an additional 21 per cent duty on their imported vehicles.

&nbsp;

This series of developments highlights the evolving landscape of the global electric vehicle market, showcasing the increasing collaboration between established Western automakers and emerging Chinese manufacturers, as well as the complex interplay of production strategies, cost considerations, and international trade policies.

A joint venture led by Stellantis has commenced production of electric vehicles designed by the Chinese automaker Leapmotor at Stellantis' manufacturing facility in Tychy, Poland.

A joint venture led by Stellantis has commenced production of electric vehicles designed by the Chinese automaker Leapmotor at Stellantis' manufacturing facility in Tychy, Poland. This information was reported by analysts at Jefferies, who cited statements made by Leapmotor's management team. In a report released late on Sunday, Jefferies disclosed that Leapmotor's management had revealed during an analyst call that the initial units of their T03 small electric vehicle had been manufactured at Stellantis' assembly plant in Poland in the previous week. The production is reportedly on schedule to transition to mass manufacturing in September. This development aligns with a Reuters report from March, which, based on information from two sources close to the matter, had indicated that Stellantis had selected its Polish facility as the primary production site in Europe for Leapmotor's vehicles. The decision was reportedly made primarily for cost-saving purposes. The collaboration between Stellantis and Leapmotor has resulted in the formation of a joint venture, with the Franco-Italian automaker holding a majority stake of 51 per cent. This arrangement grants Stellantis exclusive rights to manufacture, export, and sell Leapmotor products outside of China, marking a first for a traditional Western automotive company. This joint venture, operating under the name Leapmotor International, is a component of a broader partnership between the two companies. As part of this larger agreement, Stellantis is acquiring a 21 per cent stake in Leapmotor through a USD 1.6 billion investment. According to Jefferies, the joint venture has plans to introduce a second Leapmotor model at Stellantis' Polish plant. The A12 SUV is scheduled to begin production in the first quarter of 2025. Leapmotor has initiated preparations for the localized production of components. Leapmotor's management team, as reported by Jefferies, stated that the manufacturing costs at the Polish plant are approximately 400-500 euros ( USD 428.08- USD 535.10) per vehicle. This figure is comparable to the production costs at Leapmotor's facilities in China, and significantly lower than the estimated 1,000 euros per vehicle cost at plants in Italy. For its C10 SUV model, Leapmotor intends to maintain production in China and export the vehicles to Europe in the initial stages. This strategy is based on the potential for higher pricing of this model in the European market, according to Jefferies' report. It's worth noting that the European Commission recently announced the implementation of additional duties on imported Chinese electric vehicles, set to take effect in July. For Leapmotor specifically, these new tariffs will result in an additional 21 per cent duty on their imported vehicles. This series of developments highlights the evolving landscape of the global electric vehicle market, showcasing the increasing collaboration between established Western automakers and emerging Chinese manufacturers, as well as the complex interplay of production strategies, cost considerations, and international trade policies.

Leapmotor ready to start EV production at Stellantis Poland plant

Poland has revealed plans to build a line of minefields, bunkers, and anti-tank trenches along its borders with Russia and Belarus.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk earlier this month announced plans to build a 10 billion zloty (£2 billion) defence barrier to render NATO's eastern flank "impassable to a potential enemy," but he did not offer many specifics.

A network of steel barriers, palisades, and concrete anti-tank "hedgehogs" interwoven with earthworks is visible along 434 miles of frontier, according to simulations shown on Monday.

Poland's defence minister, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, stated that the 'East Shield' deterrent and defence strategy is the greatest operation to secure Poland's eastern border and NATO's eastern flank since 1945. It will be a mix of contemporary technologies, fortifications, and topography.

He said that in addition, the government will request for financing for the border wall from the European Union. The project is scheduled to begin this year and be finished by 2028.

East Shield has been promoted as a deterrent to prevent an assault from Russia. Polish media have termed it the "Tusk line." Plans are purportedly being developed in cooperation with Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgian-parliament-overrides-presidential-veto-adopts-foreign-agents-law-726397">Georgian parliament overrides presidential veto, adopts ‘foreign agents’ law amid protests</a>

It is not to be confused with a wall built along the border to prevent migrants from Belarus from crossing. A complex network of trenches, bunkers, and tank traps is depicted on the designs. Mines would only be set if it seemed like war might break out.

Poland borders Belarus, Russia's close ally, by 170-miles, and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad by 130 miles. With thousands of migrants and refugees entering Europe across the border with Belarus—mostly from the Middle East—it has turned into a hotspot for security.

This has been called a "hybrid war of migration" by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who is assisted by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko.

“Those are not refugees, those are less and less migrants, families, poor people needing help. In 80 per cent of the cases, these are organised groups of men, aged 18 to 30, very aggressive,” Tusk added. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Poland has revealed plans to build a line of minefields, bunkers, and anti-tank trenches along its borders with Russia and Belarus. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk earlier this month announced plans to build a 10 billion zloty (£2 billion) defence barrier to render NATO's eastern flank "impassable to a potential enemy," but he did not offer many specifics.

Poland has revealed plans to build a line of minefields, bunkers, and anti-tank trenches along its borders with Russia and Belarus. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk earlier this month announced plans to build a 10 billion zloty (£2 billion) defence barrier to render NATO's eastern flank "impassable to a potential enemy," but he did not offer many specifics. A network of steel barriers, palisades, and concrete anti-tank "hedgehogs" interwoven with earthworks is visible along 434 miles of frontier, according to simulations shown on Monday. Poland's defence minister, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, stated that the 'East Shield' deterrent and defence strategy is the greatest operation to secure Poland's eastern border and NATO's eastern flank since 1945. It will be a mix of contemporary technologies, fortifications, and topography. He said that in addition, the government will request for financing for the border wall from the European Union. The project is scheduled to begin this year and be finished by 2028. East Shield has been promoted as a deterrent to prevent an assault from Russia. Polish media have termed it the "Tusk line." Plans are purportedly being developed in cooperation with Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Also read: Georgian parliament overrides presidential veto, adopts ‘foreign agents’ law amid protests It is not to be confused with a wall built along the border to prevent migrants from Belarus from crossing. A complex network of trenches, bunkers, and tank traps is depicted on the designs. Mines would only be set if it seemed like war might break out. Poland borders Belarus, Russia's close ally, by 170-miles, and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad by 130 miles. With thousands of migrants and refugees entering Europe across the border with Belarus—mostly from the Middle East—it has turned into a hotspot for security. This has been called a "hybrid war of migration" by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who is assisted by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. “Those are not refugees, those are less and less migrants, families, poor people needing help. In 80 per cent of the cases, these are organised groups of men, aged 18 to 30, very aggressive,” Tusk added. (With inputs from agencies)

Poland unveils ‘East Shield’: Massive defence barrier to fortify borders with Russia and Belarus

Poland has announced that it would restrict Russian diplomats' movement on its soil. This comes after it detained several people on suspicions of planning sabotage attacks on behalf of Russian security services.

Gravitas: Poland to restrict Russian diplomats' movement on its soil

Poland on Monday (May 28) announced that it would restrict the movement of Russian diplomats in the country as a part of a security measure.

The decision comes after Poland apprehended several people who were allegedly orchestrating sabotage attacks on behalf of Russian security services.

The latest measures would curb the movement of consular staff to the Warsaw region, however, it will not have any impact on the Russian ambassador, Sergei Andreyev.

Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski said that his country was not the first one to impose such restrictions, further adding that he hoped more countries would join the list.

"I just announced a Polish decision in connection to Russia's participation in hybrid warfare against the European Union, including Poland: a restriction of movement for Russian diplomats in our country," he told reporters in Brussels after meeting with his EU counterparts.

Sikorski, in his announcement, stated that he hoped Russia would take the curbs as a "very serious warning signal".&nbsp;

"These are national decisions, but we have evidence that the Russian state is involved in authorizing sabotage in our country as well. We hope that the Russian Federation will treat this as a very serious warning," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-pledges-1-bln-in-military-aid-to-ukraine-signs-bilateral-defence-deal-726056">Spain pledges 1 billion in military aid to Ukraine, signs bilateral defence deal</a>

<h2>Moscow says will respond to restrictions</h2>

Russia, following the announcement by Poland, said that it would respond to the restrictions imposed by Warsaw and that Poland would "greatly regret" the move.

"We will study it and take retaliatory measures so that the Polish top brass -- drowning in Russophobia -- will greatly regret these latest anti-Russian steps," foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova was quoted as saying by Russian news agencies.

However, Russian ambassador&nbsp;Sergei Andreyev said that the embassy was not yet officially notified about the move,&nbsp;adding that "no explanations" were given in this regard.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Poland on Monday (May 28) announced that it would restrict the movement of Russian diplomats in the country as a part of a security measure. The decision comes after Poland apprehended several people who were allegedly orchestrating sabotage attacks on behalf of Russian security services.

Poland on Monday (May 28) announced that it would restrict the movement of Russian diplomats in the country as a part of a security measure. The decision comes after Poland apprehended several people who were allegedly orchestrating sabotage attacks on behalf of Russian security services. The latest measures would curb the movement of consular staff to the Warsaw region, however, it will not have any impact on the Russian ambassador, Sergei Andreyev. Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski said that his country was not the first one to impose such restrictions, further adding that he hoped more countries would join the list. "I just announced a Polish decision in connection to Russia's participation in hybrid warfare against the European Union, including Poland: a restriction of movement for Russian diplomats in our country," he told reporters in Brussels after meeting with his EU counterparts. Sikorski, in his announcement, stated that he hoped Russia would take the curbs as a "very serious warning signal". "These are national decisions, but we have evidence that the Russian state is involved in authorizing sabotage in our country as well. We hope that the Russian Federation will treat this as a very serious warning," he added. Also read: Spain pledges 1 billion in military aid to Ukraine, signs bilateral defence deal Moscow says will respond to restrictions Russia, following the announcement by Poland, said that it would respond to the restrictions imposed by Warsaw and that Poland would "greatly regret" the move. "We will study it and take retaliatory measures so that the Polish top brass -- drowning in Russophobia -- will greatly regret these latest anti-Russian steps," foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova was quoted as saying by Russian news agencies. However, Russian ambassador Sergei Andreyev said that the embassy was not yet officially notified about the move, adding that "no explanations" were given in this regard. (With inputs from agencies)

Poland to restrict Russian diplomats' movement, Moscow warns of 'retaliatory measures'

Watch top headlines of the hour: - IDF must probe strikes swiftly: Cameron - Germany: Macron pushes for EU defence - 1 million fled Rafah in 3 weeks: UNRWA - Poland to send troops to Ukraine? - Australia's retail sales flat in April - Spain, Ireland, Norway to recognise Palestine

IDF must probe strikes swiftly: Cameron | 1 million fled Rafah in 3 weeks: UNRWA | WION Headlines

Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Poland, Finland, and Norway, all NATO members bordering Russia, have decided to join forces to build a “drone wall” to protect their borders.

Gravitas: Russia superior war-machinery makes NATO nervous, nations of US-led bloc plan 'drone wall'

Thousands of Poles gathered in Gdansk on Saturday for the northern port city’s annual Pride event, with many calling on the government to do more to boost LGBTQ+ rights, including delivering on a promise to pass a same-sex civil unions law.

LGBTQ+ marchers gather at 9th annual pride event in Poland

In the face of Russia's war on Ukraine - Poland and Greece have called the European Union to create an air defence sheild to better protect the block.

Poland & Greece propose creation of European Air Defence shield

Poland has signed a $960 million agreement with the United States this deal represents a significant enhancement of Poland's National Defence capabilities. The agreement involves the use of the US airspace surveillance system by Poland.

Poland buys US radar systems

Poland-US sign a $960 million agreement

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Saturday (May 18) said that his country would invest over 2.3 billion euros ($2.5 billion) to strengthen its eastern border, the EU's eastern flank, against potential foes.

"We have taken the decision to invest 10 billion zlotys for our security and above all to secure our eastern border," he said, calling the project an "eastern shield".&nbsp;

Poland's eastern border comprises Belarus, Ukraine and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad.

"The reinforcement of 400 kilometres (about 250 miles) of the border with Russia and Belarus will be an element of dissuasion, a strategy to push back the war at our frontiers," he said, adding that the work had not started.

Warsaw has strongly supported Kyiv since the beginning of Russia's offensive against Ukraine and has acted as a transit route for the weaponry being provided to Ukraine by its Western allies.

Warsaw has also revamped its army and raised the defence expenditure to four per cent of GDP, making it the European Union's highest percentage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-zelensky-meets-military-leaders-in-kharkiv-says-situation-very-difficult-722148">Also read:&nbsp;Ukrainian shelling claims lives of four in Donetsk, says Russia</a>

<h2>Russia captures another village in Ukraine Kharkiv</h2>

Meanwhile, Russia on Saturday said that it has captured a village in the vicinity of Kharkiv region's Vovchansk, where Moscow launched its new offensive last week.

"Units of the northern troop group liberated the village of Starytsya in the Kharkiv region, and continued to advance deep into the enemy's defences," the defence ministry said.&nbsp;

<h2>Zelensky meets military leaders in Kharkiv, says situation 'very difficult'</h2>

Zelensky on Thursday (May 16) said the current military situation in Kharkiv's northeastern region was "extremely difficult". However, he said it was still "under control".&nbsp;

His statement came following his meeting with the military chiefs near the front line.

"The situation in the Kharkiv region is generally under control, and our soldiers are inflicting significant losses on the occupier. However, the area remains extremely difficult. We are reinforcing our units," he said in a post on his official Telegram channel.

The Ukrainian military had earlier said that it had managed to halt Russia's advances in some of the places partially.

"Our defence forces have partially stabilised the situation. The advance of the enemy in certain zones and localities has been halted," army spokesman Nazar Voloshin said on state TV on Thursday.&nbsp;

In a daily briefing, Ukraine's General Staff said its forces had "significantly reduced the activity of the Russian occupiers."

"But the enemy is still trying to create the conditions for further advances," Voloshin warned.

(With inputs from agencies)

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Saturday (May 18) said that his country would invest over 2.3 billion euros ($2.5 billion) to strengthen its eastern border, the EU's eastern flank, against potential foes.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Saturday (May 18) said that his country would invest over 2.3 billion euros ($2.5 billion) to strengthen its eastern border, the EU's eastern flank, against potential foes. "We have taken the decision to invest 10 billion zlotys for our security and above all to secure our eastern border," he said, calling the project an "eastern shield". Poland's eastern border comprises Belarus, Ukraine and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad. "The reinforcement of 400 kilometres (about 250 miles) of the border with Russia and Belarus will be an element of dissuasion, a strategy to push back the war at our frontiers," he said, adding that the work had not started. Warsaw has strongly supported Kyiv since the beginning of Russia's offensive against Ukraine and has acted as a transit route for the weaponry being provided to Ukraine by its Western allies. Warsaw has also revamped its army and raised the defence expenditure to four per cent of GDP, making it the European Union's highest percentage. Also read: Ukrainian shelling claims lives of four in Donetsk, says Russia Russia captures another village in Ukraine Kharkiv Meanwhile, Russia on Saturday said that it has captured a village in the vicinity of Kharkiv region's Vovchansk, where Moscow launched its new offensive last week. "Units of the northern troop group liberated the village of Starytsya in the Kharkiv region, and continued to advance deep into the enemy's defences," the defence ministry said. Zelensky meets military leaders in Kharkiv, says situation 'very difficult' Zelensky on Thursday (May 16) said the current military situation in Kharkiv's northeastern region was "extremely difficult". However, he said it was still "under control". His statement came following his meeting with the military chiefs near the front line. "The situation in the Kharkiv region is generally under control, and our soldiers are inflicting significant losses on the occupier. However, the area remains extremely difficult. We are reinforcing our units," he said in a post on his official Telegram channel. The Ukrainian military had earlier said that it had managed to halt Russia's advances in some of the places partially. "Our defence forces have partially stabilised the situation. The advance of the enemy in certain zones and localities has been halted," army spokesman Nazar Voloshin said on state TV on Thursday. In a daily briefing, Ukraine's General Staff said its forces had "significantly reduced the activity of the Russian occupiers." "But the enemy is still trying to create the conditions for further advances," Voloshin warned. (With inputs from agencies)

Polish PM says will spend over 2.3 billion euros to fortify border with Ukraine

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Slovak PM attacker taken to court - North India simmers under heatwave - Situation calm: Kyrgyz Government - Poland to fortify eastern border - To Lam named new Vietnam President

To Lam named new Vietnam President | Bishkek violence: Situation calm: Kyrgyz govt

Poland to fortify eastern border | To Lam named new Vietnam President

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has said that he's receiving threats after the assassination attempt on his Slovakian counterpart. According to the Polish media his security protection will be strengthened.

Polish PM Tusk says he received threats after attack on Slovakia's PM

Stories of fraudulent self-proclaimed healers are not uncommon throughout history. They often exploit people's vulnerabilities and beliefs for personal gain. One such historical example is the legendary tale of&nbsp;Polish conman Anthony Jaczewicz.&nbsp;Legend has it that Jaczewicz exploited the fears of an ailing population during a time of war and plague by posing as a divine healer.

Now, in central Poland, a group of volunteer metal detectorists has stumbled upon a cache of gold and silver coins hidden underground that could potentially validate this centuries-old legend.

According to the Provincial Office for the Protection of Monuments in Kielce, the collection comprised&nbsp;coins dating back to the 17th and early 18th centuries.

Sebastian Grabowiec, leader of the exploration group, expressed his belief that the recovered coins may indeed be linked to Jaczewicz's legendary hoard. "The coins we recovered may be part of this legendary treasure collected by Jaczewicz," said Grabowiec while speaking to the government-backed Polish science organisation PAP.&nbsp;

<h2>Where was the trove found?</h2>

The discovery was made in the Jeleniowskie mountain range. The entire exploration&nbsp;started with obtaining permission from local authorities.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/new-protein-gel-breaks-down-alcohol-in-gastrointestinal-tract-converts-into-harmless-acetic-acid-721205">New protein gel breaks down alcohol in gastrointestinal tract, converts into harmless product</a>

Notably, as people sought the supposed curative powers of the Polish fraudster, donations came into his settlement in the Świętokrzyskie Mountains. This enabled him to build a fortified compound guarded by hired men who engaged in theft, including seizing the entire nearby properties.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/rethinking-the-brains-cleanup-crew-sleep-does-not-detox-brain-as-previously-thought-heres-what-does-721131">Rethinking the brain's cleanup crew: Sleep does not detox brain as previously thought. Here's what does</a>

Although Jaczewicz was eventually captured and imprisoned, after evading his initial detention, he purportedly resumed his activities as a self-proclaimed healer. He did this by asserting that he was allowed to do so&nbsp;by the pope's blessings.

However, Jaczewicz's efforts were short-lived as he was recaptured and tried by a court in Kraków in 1712. Found guilty, he was sentenced to life imprisonment. His ill-gotten wealth remained a mystery until the recent discovery of these coins.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/germany-witnesses-28-surge-in-cybercrime-of-foreign-origin-in-2023-report-721181">Germany witnesses 28% surge in Cybercrime of foreign origin in 2023: Report</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/germany-witnesses-28-surge-in-cybercrime-of-foreign-origin-in-2023-report-721181/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The artefacts have been entrusted to an archaeological museum in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski for preservation and further study.

(With inputs from agencies)

Stories of fraudulent self-proclaimed healers are not uncommon throughout history. They often exploit people's vulnerabilities and beliefs for personal gain. One such historical example is the legendary tale of Polish conman Anthony Jaczewicz.

Stories of fraudulent self-proclaimed healers are not uncommon throughout history. They often exploit people's vulnerabilities and beliefs for personal gain. One such historical example is the legendary tale of Polish conman Anthony Jaczewicz. Legend has it that Jaczewicz exploited the fears of an ailing population during a time of war and plague by posing as a divine healer. Now, in central Poland, a group of volunteer metal detectorists has stumbled upon a cache of gold and silver coins hidden underground that could potentially validate this centuries-old legend. According to the Provincial Office for the Protection of Monuments in Kielce, the collection comprised coins dating back to the 17th and early 18th centuries. Sebastian Grabowiec, leader of the exploration group, expressed his belief that the recovered coins may indeed be linked to Jaczewicz's legendary hoard. "The coins we recovered may be part of this legendary treasure collected by Jaczewicz," said Grabowiec while speaking to the government-backed Polish science organisation PAP. Where was the trove found? The discovery was made in the Jeleniowskie mountain range. The entire exploration started with obtaining permission from local authorities. Also Read | New protein gel breaks down alcohol in gastrointestinal tract, converts into harmless product Notably, as people sought the supposed curative powers of the Polish fraudster, donations came into his settlement in the Świętokrzyskie Mountains. This enabled him to build a fortified compound guarded by hired men who engaged in theft, including seizing the entire nearby properties. Also Read | Rethinking the brain's cleanup crew: Sleep does not detox brain as previously thought. Here's what does Although Jaczewicz was eventually captured and imprisoned, after evading his initial detention, he purportedly resumed his activities as a self-proclaimed healer. He did this by asserting that he was allowed to do so by the pope's blessings. However, Jaczewicz's efforts were short-lived as he was recaptured and tried by a court in Kraków in 1712. Found guilty, he was sentenced to life imprisonment. His ill-gotten wealth remained a mystery until the recent discovery of these coins. Watch | Germany witnesses 28% surge in Cybercrime of foreign origin in 2023: Report × The artefacts have been entrusted to an archaeological museum in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski for preservation and further study. (With inputs from agencies)

Metal detectorists discover coins linked to legendary tale of Polish conman

Thousands of Polish Farmers gathered in downtown Warsaw to oppose the European Union's environmental regulations. The farmers say the climate policies are driving them out of business.

Polish farmers protest against EU green deal

Poland on Saturday (May 4) denounced Russia for its alleged cyberattacks reported by Germany and the Czech Republic stating that it was too targeted by the hackers.

Expressing solidarity with Germany and the Czech Republic, Poland's foreign ministry released a statement condemning the "harmful activities" carried out in cyberspace by Russian entities.

"Poland, which is also one of the targets of the APT 28 attacks, strongly condemns the repeated, unacceptable and harmful activities carried out in cyberspace by Russian entities," the statement said.

However, Warsaw did not provide any details regarding the attack in the statement.

"Facing the continuous increase in threats in cyberspace, Poland is actively working to protect critical infrastructure, build resilience and strengthen cyber defence."

Germany, on Friday (May 3) blamed Russia for a series of cyberattacks and alleged that Moscow’s intelligence service was behind the activities that targeted German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s party Social Democrats (SPD), last year.&nbsp;

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said that a recent government investigation found that a cyberattack targeting members of the SPD had been carried out by a Russian group called APT28 which operates under “the military intelligence service of Russia”.&nbsp;

“We can now clearly attribute the attack to the Russian group APT28, which is controlled by the Russian military intelligence service GRU,” Baerbock told reporters during a visit to Australia.

She added, “In other words, it was a state-sponsored Russian cyberattack on Germany and this is absolutely intolerable and unacceptable and will have consequences.”

APT28, also known as Fancy Bear or Pawn Storm, has been accused of dozens of cyberattacks around the world.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-accuses-david-cameron-of-direct-escalation-over-arms-for-ukraine-717866">Kremlin accuses David Cameron of 'direct escalation' over arms for Ukraine</a>

Last year, SPD announced that cybercriminals had targeted email accounts belonging to its executives, earlier in 2023.&nbsp;

According to German officials, hackers exploited a previously unknown vulnerability in Microsoft Outlook to compromise email accounts.&nbsp;

The German interior ministry also said that from December 2022 onwards SPD and companies in the logistics, defence, aerospace and IT sectors were targeted by Russian hackers.&nbsp;

<h2>Czech Republic officials level&nbsp;similar allegations</h2>

Officials in the Czech Republic also levelled similar allegations against Russia. Czech government officials said some of its state institutions had been the target of cyberattacks and&nbsp;blamed APT28 who again exploited a weakness in Microsoft Outlook, last year.&nbsp;

German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser during a joint news conference in Prague with her Czech counterpart Vit Rakusan said such cyberattacks are “a threat to our democracy, national security and our free societies”.&nbsp;

She added, “We are calling on Russia again to stop these activities.” Meanwhile, Rakusan said his country’s infrastructure had recently experienced “higher dozens” of such attacks.&nbsp;

The Russian Embassy in Germany however denied the allegations stating&nbsp;that its envoy “categorically rejected the accusations that Russian state structures were involved in the given incident... as unsubstantiated and groundless”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Poland on Saturday (May 4) denounced Russia for its alleged cyberattacks reported by Germany and the Czech Republic stating that it was too targeted by the hackers.

Poland on Saturday (May 4) denounced Russia for its alleged cyberattacks reported by Germany and the Czech Republic stating that it was too targeted by the hackers. Expressing solidarity with Germany and the Czech Republic, Poland's foreign ministry released a statement condemning the "harmful activities" carried out in cyberspace by Russian entities. "Poland, which is also one of the targets of the APT 28 attacks, strongly condemns the repeated, unacceptable and harmful activities carried out in cyberspace by Russian entities," the statement said. However, Warsaw did not provide any details regarding the attack in the statement. "Facing the continuous increase in threats in cyberspace, Poland is actively working to protect critical infrastructure, build resilience and strengthen cyber defence." Germany, on Friday (May 3) blamed Russia for a series of cyberattacks and alleged that Moscow’s intelligence service was behind the activities that targeted German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s party Social Democrats (SPD), last year. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said that a recent government investigation found that a cyberattack targeting members of the SPD had been carried out by a Russian group called APT28 which operates under “the military intelligence service of Russia”. “We can now clearly attribute the attack to the Russian group APT28, which is controlled by the Russian military intelligence service GRU,” Baerbock told reporters during a visit to Australia. She added, “In other words, it was a state-sponsored Russian cyberattack on Germany and this is absolutely intolerable and unacceptable and will have consequences.” APT28, also known as Fancy Bear or Pawn Storm, has been accused of dozens of cyberattacks around the world. Also read: Kremlin accuses David Cameron of 'direct escalation' over arms for Ukraine Last year, SPD announced that cybercriminals had targeted email accounts belonging to its executives, earlier in 2023. According to German officials, hackers exploited a previously unknown vulnerability in Microsoft Outlook to compromise email accounts. The German interior ministry also said that from December 2022 onwards SPD and companies in the logistics, defence, aerospace and IT sectors were targeted by Russian hackers. Czech Republic officials level similar allegations Officials in the Czech Republic also levelled similar allegations against Russia. Czech government officials said some of its state institutions had been the target of cyberattacks and blamed APT28 who again exploited a weakness in Microsoft Outlook, last year. German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser during a joint news conference in Prague with her Czech counterpart Vit Rakusan said such cyberattacks are “a threat to our democracy, national security and our free societies”. She added, “We are calling on Russia again to stop these activities.” Meanwhile, Rakusan said his country’s infrastructure had recently experienced “higher dozens” of such attacks. The Russian Embassy in Germany however denied the allegations stating that its envoy “categorically rejected the accusations that Russian state structures were involved in the given incident... as unsubstantiated and groundless”. (With inputs from agencies)

Poland joins Germany, Czech Republic in accusing Russia of cyberattacks, says ‘was targeted too’

The main synagogue in Poland's capital city of Warsaw was attacked by firebombs by an unknown perpetrator early Wednesday (May 1), the news agency Associated Press reported.

The main synagogue in Poland's capital city of Warsaw was attacked by firebombs by an unknown perpetrator early Wednesday (May 1), the news agency Associated Press reported. Poland's Chief Rabbi Michael Schudrich said the Nożyk Synagogue sustained minimal damage and no injuries were reported. Schudrich said the attack happened at around 1 am (Wednesday) when the synagogue was hit with three firebombs or Molotov cocktails. Also read | Synagogue in Canada's Fredericton vandalised on International Holocaust Remembrance Day It was unclear who carried out the attack but the police launched an investigation, the chief rabbi added. A black area that was the result of where the firebombs hit was visible near a ground-floor window of the synagogue, the only surviving prewar Jewish house of prayer in Warsaw, the Associated Press report said. Polish president condemns 'shameful attack' In a post on X, Polish President Andrzej Duda condemned the "shameful attack" on the synagogue in Warsaw. "I condemn the shameful attack on the Nożyk Synagogue in Warsaw. There is no place for anti-Semitism in Poland! There is no place for hatred in Poland!" President Duda said on Wednesday. The incident occurred on the 20th anniversary of Poland joining the European Union (EU) along with nine other countries. Taking to X, Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski said, "Thank God no one was hurt. I wonder who is trying to disrupt the anniversary of our accession to the EU." Also watch | US diplomat resigns in protest over the policy in Gaza × “Maybe the same ones who scribbled Stars of David in Paris?” Foreign Minister Sikorski added. Ambassadors of US, Israel arrive at incident site Hours after the attack, ambassadors of the United States (US) and Israel arrived at the incident site with Jewish community leaders and Polish officials representing the president, the national parliament and the city government to condemn the attack, the report further said. Addressing a press conference, US Ambassador Mark Brzezinski said, "The Nożyk synagogue is a symbol of survival, and we stand in solidarity with Nożyk today and tomorrow." (With inputs from agencies)

Synagogue in Poland's Warsaw attacked with firebombs, police launch probe

The Lithuanian and the Polish forces held massive military exercises the week-long drills called the Brave Griffin 24. The exercises are being held along the Suwalki gap. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine war | Polish & Lithuanian forces hold joint military drills amid Ukraine war

Now The Echoes of the past rang out as the Spectre of nuclear brinkmanship loomed over Europe again. Just as the Cuban Missile Crisis brought the world to the precipice of nuclear war in 1962 a new standoff is brewing this time with Poland at the centre.

Poland's bold offer to host NATO missiles

Moscow says that the Russian military will analyse any move by Poland to host US nuclear weapons. Polish president Andrzej Duda was quoted as saying that Poland was ready to talk to the United States about hosting nuclear weapons to strengthen NATO's eastern flank. Take a look at the story on how the world is teetering closer to a nuclear crisis reminiscent of the Cuban missile crisis.

Poland ready to host NATO nuclear weapons, says President Duda

Poland's bold offer to host NATO nuclear missiles

Poland is ready to host nuclear arms if NATO decides to deploy the weapons in the face of Russia reinforcing its armaments in Belarus and Kaliningrad, President Andrzej Duda said in an interview published on Monday.

"If our allies decide to deploy nuclear arms on our territory as part of nuclear sharing, to reinforce NATO's eastern flank, we are ready to do so," Duda said in an interview published by the Fakt daily.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Poland is ready to host nuclear arms if NATO decides to deploy the weapons in the face of Russia reinforcing its armaments in Belarus and Kaliningrad, President Andrzej Duda said in an interview published on Monday.

Poland is ready to host nuclear arms if NATO decides to deploy the weapons in the face of Russia reinforcing its armaments in Belarus and Kaliningrad, President Andrzej Duda said in an interview published on Monday. "If our allies decide to deploy nuclear arms on our territory as part of nuclear sharing, to reinforce NATO's eastern flank, we are ready to do so," Duda said in an interview published by the Fakt daily.

Poland 'ready' to have nuclear weapons on its territory: President Andrzej Duda

A Polish man has been charged for allegedly taking part in a Russian plot aimed at assassinating Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, as per the authorities in Ukraine and Poland.

A Polish man has been charged for allegedly taking part in a Russian plot aimed at assassinating Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, as per the authorities in Ukraine and Poland. According to the Polish authorities, the Polish man named Paweł K was tasked “to help, among other things, in planning by Russian special services a possible attack on the life of the head of a foreign state – President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky,” as per a statement on Thursday (April 18). According to the prosecutors, the man was willing to provide information to Russian spies regarding the security details at Rzeszow-Jasionka airport in southeastern Poland, which is nearly 100 kilometres (62 miles) from Poland's border with Ukraine. Also Read: Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky signs army mobilisation bill into law It is known that Zelensky uses the airport when departing on foreign trips since it is one of the airports closest to the Ukrainian border. Ukrainian prosecutor general Andriy Kostin said that the suspect allegedly "proactively established contact" with Russian military command representatives and "informed them of his readiness to cooperate" with the Russian Federation's foreign military intelligence agency. Polish man faces eight years imprisonment if convicted According to the office, the suspect, if convicted, can face up to eight years in prison. "This case underscores the persistent threat Russia poses not only to Ukraine and Ukrainians but to the entire free world," said Kostin. "The Kremlin's criminal regime is constantly trying to undermine European and global security. It organises and carries out sabotage operations on the territory of other sovereign states," he added. The news of a Polish man working as a spy came just hours after German police stated that two suspected Russian agents were arrested by them in the Bavarian town of Bayreuth. Watch: Ukraine war: Zelensky condemns Iran, says Ukraine needs help too The two individuals, who were identified as German-Russian nationals, faced accusations of plotting sabotage attacks and also being involved in an explosive detonation, as per a statement by the Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office in Karlsruhe. In April 2023, Zelensky visited Poland and was accorded a warm welcome by its citizens as well as President Andrzej Duda. Poland is located on the western border of Ukraine. After the Russian invasion, Poland took many refugees who had fled from Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Poland arrests man on charges of spying for Russia and plotting Zelensky's assassination

Two people have been detained in Poland on suspicion of attacking Leonid Volkov, an exiled top aide to the late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, Polish and Lithuanian police said on Friday.

Volkov suffered injuries from hammer blows in the attack on March 12 outside his home in Vilnius, the Lithuanian capital.

Lithuanian counterintelligence said at the time that the attack was the work of Russian special services. The Kremlin declined to comment.

Polish police said on the social media platform X that they had arrested the two suspects in cooperation with Lithuanian police in response to a European arrest warrant.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finland-accuses-russia-of-orchestrating-migrant-crisis-on-border-requests-help-from-eu-713046">Finland accuses Russia of orchestrating migrant crisis on border, requests help from EU</a>

Separately, the deputy head of Lithuania's criminal police, Saulius Briginas, told a press conference in Vilnius that the suspects were both Polish citizens and had been detained on April 3 in Warsaw.

The two suspects have been charged in Lithuania with intentionally causing minor bodily harm to Volkov because of his beliefs, which is punishable by a fine or a jail term, chief Vilnius prosecutor Justas Laucius said.

"At this time, the charge is that the crime was committed due to (Volkov's) beliefs and his political activities", Laucius told the same news conference in Vilnius.

The suspects could be extradited to Lithuania by May, Laucius added.

<h2>SUSPECTS KNOWN TO POLICE</h2>

The two suspects were previously known to Polish police and had travelled to Lithuania to carry out the assault, said Briginas.

Laucius said he did not know whether the detainees were connected to a Polish citizen who was arrested on Thursday on suspicion of planning to cooperate with Russian foreign intelligence services for a possible assassination attempt on Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Polish police had no further comment on the arrests. The office of Poland's minister in charge of special services did not immediately reply to an emailed request for comment.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-says-us-not-involved-in-any-offensive-operation-713037">US 'not involved in any offensive operation' after Israel carries retaliatory attacks against Iran</a>

Volkov himself has blamed Russian President Vladimir Putin for the attack. Before the assault he had told Reuters that leaders of Navalny's movement in exile feared for their lives.

On Friday, Volkov thanked Lithuanian police for working "energetically and persistently" on the case.

"I am very glad that this work has been effective", he said on X. "Well, we'll find out the details soon. Can't wait to find out!"

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda thanked Poland and Lithuania's intelligence service for securing the arrests.

Navalny, Putin's most prominent critic, died in February in an Arctic prison. Russian authorities say he died of natural causes. His followers believe he was killed by the authorities, which the Kremlin denies.

Two people have been detained in Poland on suspicion of attacking Leonid Volkov, an exiled top aide to the late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, Polish and Lithuanian police said on Friday.

Two people have been detained in Poland on suspicion of attacking Leonid Volkov, an exiled top aide to the late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, Polish and Lithuanian police said on Friday. Volkov suffered injuries from hammer blows in the attack on March 12 outside his home in Vilnius, the Lithuanian capital. Lithuanian counterintelligence said at the time that the attack was the work of Russian special services. The Kremlin declined to comment. Polish police said on the social media platform X that they had arrested the two suspects in cooperation with Lithuanian police in response to a European arrest warrant. Also Read | Finland accuses Russia of orchestrating migrant crisis on border, requests help from EU Separately, the deputy head of Lithuania's criminal police, Saulius Briginas, told a press conference in Vilnius that the suspects were both Polish citizens and had been detained on April 3 in Warsaw. The two suspects have been charged in Lithuania with intentionally causing minor bodily harm to Volkov because of his beliefs, which is punishable by a fine or a jail term, chief Vilnius prosecutor Justas Laucius said. "At this time, the charge is that the crime was committed due to (Volkov's) beliefs and his political activities", Laucius told the same news conference in Vilnius. The suspects could be extradited to Lithuania by May, Laucius added. SUSPECTS KNOWN TO POLICE The two suspects were previously known to Polish police and had travelled to Lithuania to carry out the assault, said Briginas. Laucius said he did not know whether the detainees were connected to a Polish citizen who was arrested on Thursday on suspicion of planning to cooperate with Russian foreign intelligence services for a possible assassination attempt on Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky. Polish police had no further comment on the arrests. The office of Poland's minister in charge of special services did not immediately reply to an emailed request for comment. Also Read | US 'not involved in any offensive operation' after Israel carries retaliatory attacks against Iran Volkov himself has blamed Russian President Vladimir Putin for the attack. Before the assault he had told Reuters that leaders of Navalny's movement in exile feared for their lives. On Friday, Volkov thanked Lithuanian police for working "energetically and persistently" on the case. "I am very glad that this work has been effective", he said on X. "Well, we'll find out the details soon. Can't wait to find out!" Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda thanked Poland and Lithuania's intelligence service for securing the arrests. Navalny, Putin's most prominent critic, died in February in an Arctic prison. Russian authorities say he died of natural causes. His followers believe he was killed by the authorities, which the Kremlin denies.

Two suspects detained in Poland over attack on Navalny aide Leonid Volkov in Lithuania

Former US President Donald Trump and Polish President, Andrzej Duda discussed the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East over dinner Wednesday in New York. Watch in for more details!

Donald Trump meets Polish president Andrzej Duda in New York

Lawmakers in Poland have begun considering reforms to the country's draconian abortion rules, which have been more restricted over the last eight years under conservative nationalist regimes. Watch in for more details!

Poland: Discussion on three abortion bills underway

poland

Poland, News on Poland, stories on Poland, articles on Poland, Poland stories at Wion, Poland news, Poland latest news