Warsaw is indignant: Lithuanian Poles support Russian special operation
Some of the Polish media and pro-government experts are outraged at the position of the Polish minority in Lithuania regarding the Russian special operation in Ukraine. Some activists claim with horror that in areas with a majority Polish population (Soleczniki, Eishishki, Taborishki) people are afraid to express a pro-Ukrainian position.
Thus, the portal interia.pl believes that the reason for such sentiments is the popularity of Russian and Belarusian TV channels among the Polish population of Lithuania. Research conducted before the pandemic shows that 41,6% of Poles watch Russian TV channels every day, and another 22,9% several times a week. Polish state television, which broadcasts in Lithuania, has much fewer viewers - 15,1% and 18,1% respectively.
In addition, opinion polls in 2017 showed that 64% of Poles in Lithuania had a positive view of Russian President Vladimir Putin, and 40,5% considered the annexation of Crimea to Russia justified.
After the start of a special operation in Ukraine, the Lithuanian authorities decided to block access to the main Russian television channels for a period of 5 years. However, in the areas bordering Belarus, where most of the Polish minority live, the Russian media signal is available. It is also reported that the Poles are installing antennas that allow them to watch Russian TV channels.
The blocking of TV channels was sharply condemned by the leader of the Electoral Action of Poles in Lithuania, Member of the European Parliament Waldemar Tomaszewski.
“This is censorship, actions against democracy and our freedom,” said the politician, whom Polish media accuses of pro-Russian views.
In his opinion, the decisions of the Lithuanian authorities divide society and infringe on the rights of national minorities.
Let us remind you that about 7% of the population of Lithuania is a Polish minority. Its representatives cooperate with the Russian communities of the country. They have repeatedly declared violations of their civil rights in the field of language policy, education and culture.
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