During the recent Smolensk monthly commemoration in Warsaw, Mariusz Błaszczak, former Minister of National Defence and current politician of the Law and Justice party, experienced significant unrest as protestors attempted to disrupt his speech. Throughout the event, demonstrators shouted accusations of lying at Błaszczak, who in turn referred to these individuals as 'barbarians,' highlighting the intense emotions surrounding the event. Błaszczak's reaction indicates the growing polarization in Polish politics, especially in relation to the Smolensk tragedy and its aftermath.

The monthly commemoration recalls the tragic plane crash in Smolensk in 2010, which resulted in the deaths of numerous Polish officials, including President Lech Kaczyński. Each commemoration has become a focal point for both supporters and detractors of the ruling party, Law and Justice. This event saw the absence of prominent leader Jarosław Kaczyński, as other important party figures, such as Błaszczak and former Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, attended. Their presence signifies the ongoing significance of the Smolensk tragedy in Poland’s political narrative.

Błaszczak's remarks and the protestors' response underscore a broader cultural and political divide within the country. The term 'barbarians,' as levied at the protestors, could be seen as a reflection of how political rhetoric is escalating. With commemorations becoming increasingly contentious, this event puts a spotlight on the challenges facing Polish democracy and civil discourse, raising questions about how future commemorations may unfold amidst such intense feelings.