Former Polish Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro Moves to the United States

May 11, 2026, 12:45
EuropePolitics

Introduction

Zbigniew Ziobro, the former Minister of Justice of Poland, has moved from Hungary to the United States while facing criminal charges in his home country.

Main Body

Mr. Ziobro's move follows a change in the Hungarian government. He previously had protection under Viktor Orbán, but his situation changed when Prime Minister Péter Magyar took office. The Magyar administration has clearly stated that Hungary will no longer provide sanctuary to people wanted by other countries. Consequently, Ziobro moved to the U.S., where he is reportedly working as a political commentator for the broadcaster Republika. There are serious legal questions regarding how Ziobro traveled. The Polish government emphasizes that his passports were cancelled, making his travel documents invalid. Therefore, Justice Minister Waldemar Żurek has stated that Poland will ask Hungarian and American authorities to explain how Ziobro was allowed to enter the U.S. Furthermore, Polish prosecutors have started an investigation to find out if other people helped Ziobro avoid legal responsibility. Between 2015 and 2023, Ziobro led judicial reforms that caused significant tension with the European Commission. He is now accused of leading a criminal organization, abusing his power, and using victim support funds to buy Pegasus surveillance software. While Prime Minister Donald Tusk's government wants Ziobro extradited to face trial, Ziobro asserts that the charges are political and says he is ready to fight the extradition in American courts.

Conclusion

Poland is now trying to extradite Zbigniew Ziobro from the United States and is investigating the legality of his travel.

Learning

⚡ The 'Logic Connector' Shift

At the A2 level, you probably use and, but, and because for everything. To reach B2, you need to use Connectors of Consequence and Addition. These words act like road signs, telling the reader exactly how one idea leads to another.

🛠️ From Simple to Sophisticated

Look at how the article connects ideas. Instead of simple words, it uses "B2-level" bridges:

  • Instead of 'So...' →\rightarrow Consequently,

    • Example: "The Magyar administration... will no longer provide sanctuary. Consequently, Ziobro moved to the U.S."
    • Coach's Note: Use this when the second sentence is a direct result of the first.

  • Instead of 'Also...' →\rightarrow Furthermore,

    • Example: "...Poland will ask... authorities to explain... Furthermore, Polish prosecutors have started an investigation."
    • Coach's Note: Use this to add a new, important piece of information that supports your previous point.

  • Instead of 'That's why...' →\rightarrow Therefore,

    • Example: "...his passports were cancelled... Therefore, Justice Minister Waldemar Żurek has stated..."
    • Coach's Note: This is the professional version of "so." It is perfect for formal writing.

🔍 The B2 Logic Map

A2 WordB2 UpgradeFunctionVibe
SoConsequentlyResultFormal/Analytical
AlsoFurthermoreAdding infoAcademic/Serious
SoThereforeConclusionLogical/Legal

Pro Tip: Notice that these words are usually followed by a comma ( , ) when they start a sentence. This pause gives your listener time to prepare for the result or the extra information.

Vocabulary Learning

sanctuary
A place of safety or protection, especially for people who are in danger.
Example:The Hungarian government announced it would no longer provide sanctuary to those wanted by other countries.
extradition
The legal process of sending a person from one country to another so they can face criminal charges.
Example:Poland is trying to secure the extradition of Zbigniew Ziobro from the United States.
surveillance
The act of observing someone or something closely, often for security or monitoring purposes.
Example:Ziobro allegedly used victim support funds to buy Pegasus surveillance software.
investigation
A detailed inquiry or examination to discover facts about a situation or crime.
Example:Polish prosecutors have started an investigation to find out if others helped Ziobro avoid legal responsibility.
responsibility
The state of being accountable for something or someone.
Example:Ziobro is accused of abusing his power and avoiding legal responsibility.
judicial
Relating to judges, courts, or the administration of justice.
Example:Between 2015 and 2023, Ziobro led judicial reforms that caused significant tension.
tension
A state of mental or emotional strain, or a conflict between parties.
Example:The reforms led to tension with the European Commission.
commission
An official group of people appointed to carry out a particular task or investigate an issue.
Example:The European Commission was involved in the dispute over Ziobro's reforms.
organization
A group of people working together for a common purpose or goal.
Example:Ziobro is accused of leading a criminal organization.
abusing
Using something or someone in a way that is unfair, harmful, or illegal.
Example:He is accused of abusing his power to influence elections.
support
Help or assistance given to someone or something.
Example:The government denied providing support to those wanted by other countries.
court
A place where legal cases are heard and decided by judges.
Example:Ziobro says he is ready to fight the extradition in American courts.