Controversial Polish politician Grzegorz Braun announces Vilnius visit amid uncertainty over plans

Poland’s far-right Confederation of the Polish Crown leader Grzegorz Braun, one of the country’s most controversial political figures, plans to visit Vilnius in early May, though details of the trip remain unclear, LRT.lt reports.

The announcement has raised questions, as Braun’s visit may extend beyond a simple meeting with the local Polish community. Some institutions named as potential organisers have denied involvement, while his planned participation in the traditional Polish parade in Vilnius and his past inflammatory remarks about Lithuania suggest broader political motives.

### Who is Grzegorz Braun?
A political provocateur, radical commentator, and filmmaker, Braun is widely regarded as one of Poland’s most divisive figures. Known for Holocaust denial, antisemitic statements, and extinguishing a Hanukkah menorah in parliament, he has also targeted LGBTQ+ rights, abortion access, and Ukrainian refugees in Poland.

A vocal EU critic, Braun opposes Polish support for Ukraine and has staged disruptive public protests. Despite—or because of—his extremist stance, his political influence has grown, securing over 6% of the vote in Poland’s 2025 presidential election. He served in the Polish parliament from 2019 to 2024 and is now a Member of the European Parliament.

### Past remarks about Lithuania
Braun’s visit has sparked additional concern due to his previous statements about Lithuania. In a social media post, he called the country a “small, depopulated, ugly anti-Polish, Bismarckian, Anglo-Saxon, and Jewish construct,” arguing that Poland should not defend it. The rhetoric drew widespread condemnation in Poland for violating diplomatic norms.

### Unclear event details
News of Braun’s planned May 1 gathering in Vilnius emerged on social media and affiliated websites, with the politician addressing his message to Lithuania’s Polish community. However, some listed organisers have distanced themselves from the event.

Lithuania’s Foreign Ministry told LRT.lt it had no prior information about Braun’s visit. Security analysts warn that authorities should prepare for potential disruptions, given his history of provocative actions.