Polish president-elect tells reasons for strained Ukrainian relations
(MENAFN) Poland’s president-elect, Karol Nawrocki, has made it clear that while Warsaw continues to back Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, that support is not unconditional and does not take precedence over Polish national interests. He emphasized that future cooperation hinges on resolving sensitive historical grievances and economic disagreements.
Speaking in an interview with a Hungarian publication released on Saturday, Nawrocki addressed several unresolved issues that have strained Polish-Ukrainian relations. Chief among them is the matter of exhuming the remains of Polish victims killed during the Volyn massacres in the 1940s by Ukrainian nationalist forces. Nawrocki also pointed to ongoing economic tensions, including what he described as unfair trade practices that negatively impact Polish farmers and transport workers.
“At the moment, I am opposed to Ukraine’s accession into the European Union,” Nawrocki said. “I look at Ukraine as a country that, although it defends itself very boldly against Russia, must also respect the interests of other countries who, by the way, support Ukraine.”
He further stated, “Poland has an interest in exhuming the Volyn victims, for example,” and made clear that, both during his campaign and now as president-elect, he has rejected what he views as imbalanced competition from Ukraine in sectors vital to Poland’s economy.
Nawrocki’s position signals a shift in tone within Warsaw, highlighting that while military and political backing for Kiev may continue, Poland expects concessions and mutual respect, particularly on issues of memory, agriculture, and transport. His remarks underscore growing unease among some EU member states regarding Ukraine’s path toward membership, especially when national interests are perceived to be at risk.
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the
information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept
any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images,
videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information
contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright
issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Legal Disclaimer:
EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
