President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for restraint and diplomacy in the ongoing dispute between Ukraine and Poland, warning that the two countries must not let historical disagreements damage their strategic partnership. Following a meeting with Polish President Karol Nawrocki on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Ankara, Zelensky described the talks as important, long and constructive and urged both sides to remain delicate in order to preserve friendly neighborly relations.
Zelensky emphasized the need for constructive dialogue during the meeting. – I believe our meeting with the president of Poland was important, quite long and constructive. We discussed priority issues. We also discussed historical issues. In my opinion, we should be constructive and delicate so as not to destroy the important, friendly and neighborly relations between Ukraine and Poland – said Zelensky, responding to journalists via WhatsApp.
Both leaders acknowledged that Russia remains a common threat. – We have one common threat: Russia. It is very important that we maintain mutual understanding and support and act together. Our countries need only strong relations. We agreed to continue the dialogue – wrote Zelensky on Telegram after the meeting. President Nawrocki echoed this view, stating that for both nations Russia is the main threat to their independence.
Historical wounds remain unhealed
Nawrocki confirmed that historical disputes were not resolved during the hour‑long conversation. – We did not approach with the hope that we would be able to resolve all issues – he said. He stressed that the issue of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) and its symbols is non‑negotiable for Poles. – The emotion of Poles regarding the Volhynia genocide is a non‑negotiable issue. Given that this matter is so important to Poles, we count on understanding from Ukraine that the Banderite flag also limits Ukraine’s future in the EU. It carries many bad symbols – said the Polish president.
Nawrocki added that both sides confirmed their respective positions during the meeting. – I confirmed our stance on the UPA, but we also discussed how cooperation should look in the future – he explained. He also noted the need to take responsibility for actions related to the Russian Federation.
Security and economic ties as common ground
On security, Zelensky underlined that both sides understand they share a common enemy, Russia, and that the conversation covered ways to strengthen joint defense efforts. Economic cooperation was another key topic. Zelensky mentioned a successful conference on Ukraine’s reconstruction held in Gdańsk. – Polish business is interested. We are open to our Polish partners – he stated, expressing hope for continued economic collaboration.
Despite unresolved historical issues, the leaders agreed to maintain dialogue and work on areas of mutual interest. The meeting, lasting over an hour, was described by both as important for preserving the strategic relationship between Kyiv and Warsaw amid external pressures.
Źródło: Polsat News, Fot. Polsat News
