Attack on Ukrainians in Wroclaw: mayor speaks of "shocking events" and condemns xenophobia

Wroclaw Mayor Jacek Sutryk has expressed concern over reports of brutal attacks motivated by nationality-based prejudice in his city.

Source: Sutryk's statement, as reported by European Pravda

Quote: "I am publishing my address to the residents of Wroclaw in connection with the recent shocking events. It is with great concern and indignation that I have received reports of brutal attacks in Wroclaw motivated by nationality-based prejudice."

Details: Sutryk did not directly mention any specific incident or state that the violence was directed against Ukrainians, but his statement appeared shortly after reports emerged of a brutal attack on a young Ukrainian couple allegedly because of their accent.

Sutryk stated that there is and will be no tolerance in Wroclaw for violence motivated by hatred, xenophobia or national prejudice.

"Every person, regardless of the language they speak, where they come from or what they believe in, has the right to feel safe in Wroclaw. An attack on a specific person because of their origin is always an attack on the entire community we are building together, and that is exactly how we must treat it," the mayor said.

He added that this is "not an isolated incident" but "an alarming signal to which the Wroclaw community must respond with the utmost resolve".

Sutryk expressed sympathy and support for the victims and their loved ones without specifying who they were. He also expressed hope that the perpetrators would be swiftly detained and held accountable for their actions.

The Wroclaw mayor called on residents not to remain indifferent to violence, hate speech and discrimination.

"Let us always react, while ensuring our own safety. Let us report such cases to the relevant services. If it is safe, let us document them and pass the materials to the police. Every reaction matters and can help prevent further acts of violence," Sutryk wrote.

He addressed all politicians and public figures, noting that public rhetoric that labels people as "outsiders" or "lesser" can lead to real violence.

Background:

• The Consulate General of Ukraine in Wroclaw called for a swift response from Polish law enforcement to the incident in which Ukrainians were harmed. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha instructed the Consulate General to urgently take the necessary response measures.
• A 60-year-old Polish man was beaten up in Poznań on 20 July after he witnessed three men shouting insults at a young Ukrainian man and came to his defence.

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