Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday emphasized the importance of preserving strong diplomatic ties with Poland, even as the country prepares to welcome its newly elected nationalist president, Karol Nawrocki. Speaking during a joint press conference in Kyiv with outgoing Polish President Andrzej Duda, Zelensky underscored the need for continued mutual support and understanding between the neighboring nations.
“Poland is now preparing for the inauguration of its new president, Karol Nawrocki. We will do everything in our power to ensure that relations between our countries only grow stronger,” Zelensky stated. He added that maintaining close cooperation with Poland is “extremely important” as Ukraine continues its defense against Russia’s ongoing invasion, now in its third year.
Poland has played a critical role as a logistical hub for Western military aid to Ukraine and has hosted more than one million Ukrainian refugees since the conflict began in 2022. However, bilateral relations have faced recent strains, particularly during Poland’s recent presidential election campaign.
President-elect Nawrocki, who assumes office on August 6, has voiced strong nationalist views, criticized Kyiv, and expressed skepticism over Ukraine’s NATO ambitions. He accused Zelensky of “indecent” and “insolent” behavior and claimed Ukraine had not shown adequate gratitude for Poland’s assistance.
Despite his criticisms, Nawrocki has pledged to continue supporting Ukraine’s war effort. Still, he has opposed certain aid measures, particularly those benefiting Ukrainian refugees in Poland, signaling a possible shift in the previously warm bilateral dynamic.
Outgoing President Duda expressed confidence in Nawrocki’s ability to maintain constructive relations with Kyiv. “I believe President Nawrocki will build the best possible neighborly relations for the future of both countries,” Duda said during his final visit to Ukraine in office.
As regional dynamics evolve, Zelensky’s diplomatic outreach aims to solidify Ukraine’s ties with one of its most strategic partners amid uncertainty over future Polish policy. The next few months will likely determine whether Warsaw and Kyiv can navigate political differences and maintain the solidarity forged during wartime.
