Stories from Warsaw · Poland

Over 40 million passengers used Polish rail services in March. This figure represents the highest passenger volume recorded in 14 years. The report noted that previous forecasts had not anticipated such high usage levels.

Poland has issued a response to objections from the European Commission regarding the reduction of VAT on fuel. The European Commission warned Warsaw that the tax reduction is inconsistent with EU law. The Polish government maintains that the reduction is a necessary protective measure to lower fuel prices. A European Commission spokesperson stated that Brussels is analyzing Poland's explanations regarding fuel tax reductions. Currently, Brussels is not threatening Poland with sanctions. The Commission noted that unlike Hungary and Slovakia, Poland is not discriminating against EU citizens regarding fuel prices. Polish officials argue the reduction is a necessary and temporary measure to protect against the energy crisis. Calculations suggest that by the turn of August and September, reserves could drop to just two days.

A court in Warsaw has upheld a security measure regarding fraudulent advertisements that use deepfake technology to impersonate public figures. These AI-generated ads use the likeness of well-known individuals to solicit fraudulent investments.

Previously, these units served only as support for standard ambulances and were funded by local governments and emergency services. Under the new system, the National Health Fund (NFZ) will provide direct financing.

Poland is implementing engineering expansions and 13 storage sites to secure approximately 60km of its border. The government aims to secure 200km of the border this year, potentially reaching 260km of North and East border security by year-end.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk described President Karol Nawrodzki's veto of family and electoral code amendments as scandalous. The veto specifically blocked provisions intended to facilitate easier divorces for childless couples and those with adult children. Tusk stated the veto was unwise and failed to support citizens seeking peaceful resolutions. The Prime Minister noted the legislation was well-prepared and well-received prior to the veto. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk criticized a Russian proposal for a one-day ceasefire scheduled for May 9. The statement was made in Warsaw regarding the ongoing conflict. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk described the President's decision to convene a New Constitution Council as a political game. Tusk stated that existing constitutional law clearly defines the respective duties of the offices.

PiS politician Łukasz Mejza expressed interest in participating in freak fights, stating he would be the first active Member of Parliament in Europe to do so. Mejza told Polskie Radio that his participation is conditional on the prize money being allocated entirely to charity.

At a ceremony held Saturday before the presidential palace, Karol Nawrocki appointed 12 Polish military officers to general and admiral ranks. The white and red Polish flag is a symbol of Polishness wherever Poles are found, regardless of historical borders. During World War II, displaying the flag could lead to severe punishment, including the death penalty. The discussion touched upon the flag's significance before Poland regained independence. Eleven officers will be promoted to the rank of general, with an additional 15 promoted to admiral. Aid will be provided to fruit growers whose crops suffered from recent frost damage. Damage assessment is scheduled to begin in two days. The Day of the Flag is being observed today, with the hoisting of the Polish flag as a sign of respect for the national symbol and pride in national belonging.

The PiS parliamentary club lost two members, Janusz Kowalski and Łukasz Mejza, following a vote in the Sejm. Spokesperson Rafał Bochenek stated that the resignation letter submitted by Janusz Kowalski was laconic and did not specify his motives for leaving.

A local doctor determined a deceased individual died from drowning. Authorities recovered highly secret correspondence wrapped in waterproof material near the body.