Poland Seeks Extradition of Former Justice Minister from US Over Alleged Fund Misuse

Poland has formally asked the United States to extradite former Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro, who is facing 26 criminal charges linked mainly to the alleged misuse of money from a crime victims’ fund for political purposes.

Prosecutors announced that the extradition request was sent through diplomatic channels to US authorities.

Ziobro, a leading figure in the conservative Law and Justice (PiS) government that ruled Poland from 2015 to 2023, is accused of directing public funds for political gain.

The former minister, who played a key role in controversial judicial reforms criticised by the European Union as undermining the rule of law, denies all allegations.

He claims the case is politically motivated and says he is being targeted by the pro-European government of Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
Speaking to Polish broadcaster TV Republika, Ziobro said he was unconcerned by the extradition request and insisted he was being persecuted for investigating alleged wrongdoing by individuals linked to Tusk.

Ziobro fled to the United States in May after previously receiving asylum in Hungary alongside his former deputy, Marcin Romanowski.

Hungary’s new government had pledged to revoke their refugee status. Reuters earlier reported that US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau instructed officials to facilitate a visa for Ziobro.

Authorities say Romanowski’s current whereabouts remain unknown.

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