Tensions Rise as Germany and Poland Clash Over Visa Scandal and Election Meddling
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has expressed concerns over allegations of a visas-for-bribes scandal in Poland, calling for clarification and discussions with Warsaw. The scandal involves consulates allegedly issuing Polish temporary work visas and EU access in exchange for bribes. The European Union has also urged Poland to address the issue, warning of potential violations of EU law. The Polish government has announced an extraordinary inspection and audit, as well as terminating contracts with outsourcing companies handling visa applications. Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has downplayed the scale of the irregularities, stating that only several hundred visas were involved.