Tusk Accuses Cryptocurrency Firm Linked to Russia of Backing Polish Politician

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has raised concerns about a cryptocurrency firm with alleged ties to Russia backing a prominent Polish politician. Tusk accused Zondacrypto of providing financial support to some politicians from the former national-conservative government, including Karol Nawrocki's presidential bid. The company sponsored a CPAC event in Poland last year, where U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem publicly endorsed Nawrocki.

Tusk claimed that Zondacrypto's financial success is linked to Russian money and secret services, which he said were providing the company with significant support. He also stated that the firm was promoting specific political forces in Poland by sponsoring events and financing politicians from the Law and Justice party and the far-right Confederation.

The government has proposed new regulations for the crypto-assets market to bring Poland into compliance with European Union rules, but Nawrocki vetoed the legislation. Tusk alleged that Nawrocki was fully aware of Zondacrypto's ties to Russia when he blocked the regulations. The company did not respond to questions from AP about Tusk's accusations.