Stories from Poland

Poland intends to file a complaint with the European Union Court of Justice regarding the trade agreement between the EU and Mercosur. The country is currently seeking allies to support its opposition to the deal. Correspondent Beata Płomecka is reporting from Brussels on the matter.

Polish government officials are discussing the potential for developing domestic missile defense capabilities. The remarks follow discussions regarding a specific law and the exchange's alleged ties to Vladimir Putin. Deputy Prime Minister Jakub Stefaniak of the PSL expressed no surprise regarding the Pentagon's decision to adjust troop presence. He noted that the DDA document from several years ago signaled a strategic shift toward reducing US military presence in certain regions. Meanwhile, Paweł Jabłoński of PiS stated the government must ensure soldiers are stationed in Poland. The discussion follows reports of a three-car collision between Sukhachev and Mshchonov in Viskitki. The proposed regulation introduces a new form of investing. Funds collected through these accounts would be taxed at a rate of 19% of the value of the National Bank of Poland's reference rate.

The Ministry of Family, Labor and Social Policy is planning changes to simplify the 800 plus benefit system through a deregulation project. The proposal, which has entered public consultation, aims to allow for the automatic renewal of benefits for subsequent periods without requiring annual applications. Currently, the old system remains in effect, and the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) reminds recipients that applications must be submitted by Thursday to ensure continuity of payments. This change would eliminate the current requirement for citizens to submit new applications every year.

A man suspected of the fatal hit-and-run involving MP Łukasz Litewka has been taken into custody. The suspect may be released upon paying 40,000 PLN in bail, a condition the prosecution opposes. Bartosz Kilian from the Sosnowiec prosecutor's office stated that investigators believe the arrest should be unconditional during the current intensive evidence-gathering stage.

The number of work permits issued to foreigners in Poland increased by 22% last year, yet reached its lowest level in seven years. According to Rzeczpospolita, this trend reflects the government's rigorous approach to labor migration. The report notes that while permit numbers rose year-over-year, the overall volume remains at a multi-year low. The policy aims to manage the influx of foreign workers into the country.

A court rejected Krzysztof Matejaszczyk's appeal against prosecutor-imposed preventive measures that suspended him from his duties as President of Częstochowa. Matejaszczyk maintains his innocence and claims he was falsely accused. He faces charges of accepting financial benefits stemming from a National Prosecutor's Office investigation in Częstochowa. The investigation involves over a dozen other individuals and is expected to continue until May 15.

A record temperature of 31.6 degrees Celsius was recorded in Słubice, Poland.

The Masurian Volunteer Emergency Medical Service is selling one of its boats to address a financial crisis. The sale is expected to generate over 200,000 PLN for current maintenance costs. The organization faces rising operational expenses despite the upcoming tourist season. A lack of funds for staff salaries has already prevented rescuers from deploying certain essential markers for safe navigation in areas like Luknajno Bay.

Jakub Kośikowski, spokesperson for the Supreme Medical Chamber, stated that most pediatric oncology therapies in Poland are available and reimbursed by the National Health Fund (NFZ). He noted that while medical treatments are covered, families face social and indirect costs, such as loss of income for parents caring for sick children. Organizers of a recent fundraising campaign have requested that April 26 be established as a national day to fight childhood cancer, though a day already exists on February 15. Kośikowski spoke during an interview with Filip Kekusz on Tok FM. A special expert council consisting of pediatric oncology specialists from across Poland will be appointed to oversee the distribution of these funds. The fundraising effort involved internet creators, influencers, artists, journalists, and celebrities.

Radosław Piesiewicz, president of the Polish Olympic Committee, faces calls for resignation following a cryptocurrency scandal involving over 700 victims. Jakub Men. has resigned from his diplomatic post due to disagreements with US President Donald Trump. The resignation follows disappointment regarding Trump's lack of support for Ukraine, according to the Financial Times. The Polish diplomatic mission will be without a head while Russia prepares for a summer offensive against Ukraine. The announcement was reported in Warsaw. The Financial Times reported the decision, citing sources familiar with the matter. Polish sports associations have unanimously called for the resignation of the president of PKO Bank Hipoteczny. The move follows concerns regarding the bank's involvement with cryptocurrency products.