# Nationalist Independence Day March Draws Thousands in Warsaw Protesters rally against the EU and Prime Minister Tusk amid heightened security measures. - **Source:** [taz](https://taz.de) - **Published:** 2026-11-11 - **Topic:** [politics](https://brifing.si/c/politics) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/58397995-1327-4bf2-bc12-cb1538266ecf ## Massive Nationalist Rally Thousands gathered in Warsaw this Wednesday to mark Poland's Independence Day with a march organized by nationalist groups. Participants moved from Dmowski-Rondo toward the Poniatowski-Brücke, carrying white-red national flags. The event, which has been dominated by right-wing radicals for over a decade, serves as a platform for anti-EU and anti-government sentiment. ## Heightened Security Measures Authorities significantly increased police presence following a deadly terror attack in Krakow last Saturday that left six people dead and fifteen injured. Security forces monitored the march closely to ensure discipline, successfully preventing major arson or violent outbursts despite the illegal use of flares and fireworks by some participants throughout the afternoon. ## Anti-Government Rhetoric Chants during the event targeted Prime Minister Donald Tusk and the European Union, labeling the government as dictatorial. Organizers distributed posters depicting Tusk as a puppet controlled by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. These visuals underscore the movement's core demand for national sovereignty and the total rejection of Brussels' influence. ## Presidential Participation President Karol Nawrocki joined the march, signaling his alignment with the nationalist agenda. Since taking office, Nawrocki has actively blocked government efforts to restore the democratic rule of law through his veto power. His presence highlights the deep political polarization between the current administration and the nationalist-conservative faction led by PiS. ## Historical Political Context The Law and Justice party (PiS) governed Poland from 2015 to 2023, dismantling the separation of powers to consolidate state control. Although they won the most votes in 2023, they failed to form a coalition. Recent shifts suggest a potential alliance with radical right-wing parties ahead of the 2027 parliamentary elections. ## Patriotic Public Sentiment Many attendees, including elderly citizens, viewed the march as a simple expression of patriotism rather than a political statement. Churches were filled with worshippers commemorating the nation, while others gathered at the 'Independence City' stalls. These vendors sold national symbols, scarves, and armbands, though interest in extremist literature remained notably low. ## Disputed Attendance Figures Organizers claimed that approximately half a million people participated in the march, matching their pre-event projections. However, neither the Warsaw city administration nor the police have verified these numbers. Official estimates are expected to be released after the conclusion of the final rally held in front of the National Stadium tonight. ## Broader Societal Impact The march underscores the ongoing struggle over Poland's identity and its future relationship with the European Union. With the president actively opposing the government and nationalist groups gaining visibility, the country faces significant internal tension. Observers are now waiting to see if the event concludes peacefully or leads to further unrest. ## Sources covering this story - https://taz.de/Nationalfeiertag-in-Polen/!6229178/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._