In the Polish city of Legnica, local authorities are investigating a disturbing attack on two 13-year-old Ukrainian girls that took place on July 18. According to an official statement by the Polish Interior Ministry spokesperson Karolina Galecka, law enforcement is treating the incident with the utmost seriousness.
The incident occurred around 9:00 PM on Polarna Street near a local swimming pool. Reports indicate that an unidentified woman physically assaulted the teenagers. Officials are currently investigating the matter as a violation of physical integrity. Ms. Galecka stated that violence against children is unacceptable, specifically noting that the attack was likely motivated by the victims’ national origin. Such behavior contradicts the values of safety and hospitality that Poland has extended to those fleeing the war in Ukraine.
This event has sparked a broader conversation regarding the safety of Ukrainian refugees across Europe. Recent reports indicate a worrying uptick in hate-motivated incidents over the past several months. While the vast majority of Polish citizens remain supportive and welcoming, the rise in aggression suggests that targeted efforts by local authorities and civil society organizations are necessary to curb these xenophobic tendencies. Protecting vulnerable groups, especially children, must remain a priority for law enforcement agencies.
The authorities in Legnica are currently reviewing evidence to identify the perpetrator. For many Ukrainians abroad, incidents like this serve as a painful reminder of the challenges they face while adjusting to a new environment. It is crucial that such crimes are handled with full transparency and that those responsible are held accountable under Polish law to ensure that public spaces remain safe for everyone regardless of their nationality. The investigation continues as the community waits for justice for the young victims of this senseless act of aggression.