Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has called on President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and President Karol Navroçki to hold open and direct talks amid rising tensions between Ukraine and Poland. Tusk emphasized that emotions should not undermine the solidarity formed between the two countries in the face of the Russian threat.
Highlighting the importance of cooperation for both states and peoples, Tusk warned that conflict would only serve Moscow’s interests. He stressed the need for a sincere conversation between the two leaders to prevent further escalation of tensions.
Origin of the Tension
The diplomatic strain escalated after Zelenskiy’s decision a few days ago to name a unit in the Ukrainian army after UPA heroes. This move sparked backlash in Poland and brought the dispute to the center of bilateral relations.
In response, Navroçki proposed that the chapter of the Order of the White Eagle consider stripping Zelenskiy of an award. This issue is expected to be discussed at a meeting planned for Monday around noon.
New Pressure on the Warsaw-Kiev Axis
This dispute has created a new pressure point in Poland-Ukraine relations, which continue under the shadow of war. Tusk’s call serves as a warning to address the tensions at the political level before they escalate further between the two capitals.
Earlier, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated that escalating tensions would benefit neither Ukrainians nor Poles. Recent developments show how historical sensitivities are once again influencing political and diplomatic relations.