Sławomir Mentzen, a prominent Polish politician and leader of the Confederation party, has sparked controversy following his comments in Lviv, Ukraine, on the third anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2025. During this visit, he publicly labeled Ukrainian nationalist leader Stefan Bandera as a 'terrorist' and attributed the massacre of around 100,000 Poles to Bandera's followers. Mentzen's statement has triggered strong reactions not only in Poland but also in Ukraine, where Bandera is a contested figure due to his complex legacy during World War II.

Following his remarks, Mentzen reported receiving threatening messages from Ukrainians, prompting him to inform the authorities. Despite efforts by law enforcement to locate the sources of these threats, he expressed frustration at the lack of progress. He noted that while he had been offered police protection, he declined it, stating that he believes if someone intends to harm him, they will find a way to do so regardless of the security measures in place.

In light of these threats, Mentzen has decided to apply for a gun permit for personal protection. This move underscores the escalating tensions in Polish-Ukrainian relations and reflects a growing concern among some Polish politicians regarding their safety in the context of historical grievances and current geopolitical conflicts. Mentzen's actions will likely draw further scrutiny as they resonate with prevailing narratives around nationalism, historical memory, and security in the region.