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Polish PM and interior minister vow crackdown on road blockades by climate activists

02.12.2024 15:00
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has called for decisive action against road blockades orchestrated by climate activists from the group "Last Generation" ("Ostatnie Pokolenie") in Warsaw.
Climate activists from the Last Generation block the Wisłostrada motorway near the Gdański Bridge in Warsaw, November 27, 2024.
Climate activists from the Last Generation block the Wisłostrada motorway near the Gdański Bridge in Warsaw, November 27, 2024. PAP/Albert Zawada

Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak announced that the police would firmly combat "this kind of pathology."

"Blocking roads, regardless of political intentions, poses a threat to the state and all road users," Tusk wrote on social media. He added that he had instructed "the appropriate services to respond decisively and counteract such actions."

Siemoniak echoed the Prime Minister's stance. "No goal justifies such actions and behavior," he said. "We will fight this kind of pathology with full determination. It's only a matter of time before a dangerous incident occurs if we do not react." He emphasized that "the police will act firmly in this regard," adding, "There is no consent for this type of action."

Earlier, Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski criticized the blocking of the capital's main streets by climate activists. Councilors from all political factions have expressed similarly critical views on the matter.

Regular blockades in Warsaw

For over a week, climate activists from "Last Generation" have been blocking Warsaw's Wisłostrada and other major arteries during morning hours. They have also been responsible for pouring dye over the statue of the Warsaw Mermaid and delaying the start of the first horse race of the season at the Służewiec Racecourse.

The activists are demanding that, starting in 2025, 100% of funds allocated for the construction of new expressways and highways be redirected to regional and local railway connections.

(jh)

Source: Polskie Radio 24