Anti-Ukrainian streamer who tore down Ukrainian flags detained in Poland
In the city Rzeszow police detained a Polish citizen who became known for his streams, where he Tearing down Ukrainian flags from buildings and streets, The media outlet was also used to denigrate Ukrainian symbols and express hatred towards Ukrainian citizens.
According to the prosecutor's office, the man repeatedly disturbed public order and publicly incited hatred on ethnic grounds, and filming it on video for social media.
What charges were brought against him
To the detainee a number of charges were brought, In particular:
Desecration of a foreign flag, which is punishable by up to one year in prison;
Incitement to ethnic hatred, which is punishable by up to two years in prison;
Violation of public order and insulting public symbols.
Investigators noted that the man acted deliberately and tried to «draw attention to his broadcasts» by using anti-Ukrainian rhetoric.
Government response
The local prosecutor's office stated that anti-Ukrainian behaviour is unacceptable and undermines the principles of solidarity between Poland and Ukraine.
Government representatives stressed that such actions do not reflect the position of Polish society, which has been supporting Ukrainians fleeing Russian aggression since the first days of the war.
Context.
Poland has hosted more than 1.5 million Ukrainian refugees, and the Ukrainian community is active on its territory.
Cases of vandalism of Ukrainian symbols are rare, but The government is strengthening responsibility for xenophobia and violation of international relations.
Conclusion.
The detention of the anti-Ukrainian streamer was a telling example of the fact that Polish authorities respond to any acts of hatred or discrimination.
Law enforcement officials emphasise that freedom of speech cannot be a cover for insulting national dignity or hostile actions against the union state.
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