Poland arrests Ukrainian over online threats to President Nawrocki

Arrest in western Poland

Polish police on Saturday arrested a Ukrainian national in western Poland who is accused of making online death threats against President Karol Nawrocki, prosecutors said, as diplomatic tensions between Warsaw and Kyiv continue to escalate. Investigators traced social media posts allegedly threatening to kill the head of state, according to a police statement. The suspect was detained in western Poland and has been formally charged, facing potential imprisonment if convicted. Authorities declined to disclose further details regarding his identity or alleged motive.

Diplomatic tensions

The arrest comes amid strained relations following President Nawrocki's decision to revoke the Order of the White Eagle — Poland's highest state honor — from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Warsaw withdrew the decoration after Kyiv named a military unit after the wartime Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), a move that triggered strong criticism across Poland.

Security measures

Polish officials have intensified efforts in recent years to combat threats against public figures, particularly since Russia's war on Ukraine began heightening security concerns and increasing the risk of online radicalization. Authorities also warned of growing hybrid threats, including disinformation campaigns designed to inflame social tensions. The investigation into the alleged threats remains ongoing, prosecutors noted.