Tens of thousands join Poland’s nationalist Independence Day march | The Far Right News
Polish PM Urges Restraint Following Deadly Krakow Shooting Linked to Far-Right Extremism
By [Author’s Name]
Published Nov. 11, 2026
Warsaw — In the wake of a mass shooting in Krakow that left six people dead, tens of thousands of nationalists gathered in the Polish capital on Wednesday for an Independence Day march. The march, which has a history of attracting right-wing participants, came just days after the shooting incident, raising concerns about rising political tensions in the country.
Participants carried Polish flags as they assembled in central Warsaw, with police deployed to ensure the safety of the demonstration. The annual march occurs on November 11 to commemorate Poland’s restoration of independence after more than a century of partitions by Russia, Prussia, and Austria.
Critics have previously condemned the event for its associations with anti-Semitic and anti-immigrant sentiments. Supporters, however, argue that the gathering, under the motto “A Pole is the host in Poland,” represents national pride.
Anticipated turnout for this year’s event was high, with organizers expecting a record number of attendees, including foreign nationalist groups such as Spain’s Revuelta and Hungary’s far-right Mi Hazank party. Poland’s conservative-nationalist President Karol Nawrocki was spotted at the march, a frequent participant in both official and personal capacities.
“The political elites do not have the right to manage citizens against the will of the nation,” Nawrocki said, addressing perceived divisions between his party and the centrist government.
Amid this charged atmosphere, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk called for restraint, urging unity among citizens. His remarks followed the revelation that the shooter, who fired upon a crowd from his vehicle before being apprehended by police, may have been influenced by far-right ideology. Tusk emphasized the importance of safeguarding the nation’s independence and security.
“We may hold different views, we may keep each other in check, and at times we may even be political opponents,” Tusk stated. “But anyone who truly cares about Poland must understand that this space, defined by independence, freedom, and a secure Republic, is a common good.”
Justice Minister Waldemar Zurek reported that the gunman, identified as 24 years old, had expressed interest in neo-Nazi figures, including Anders Behring Breivik, the perpetrator of the 2011 Norway attacks that resulted in 77 deaths. The shooter succumbed to injuries sustained during the confrontation with police shortly after the incident on Saturday, November 7.
As Poland reflects on this tragedy, calls for a united front against extremism grow louder, with leaders encouraging dialogue amidst a backdrop of national pride and remembrance.
