Navrotskyi's controversial veto - Ukrainian embassy addresses refugees in Poland
Photo: Vasyl Bodnar, ambassador of Ukraine to the Republic of Poland (Getty Images)
Ukrainian diplomats are holding consultations with the Polish authorities regarding President Karol Navrotskyi’s veto of the law on payments to Ukrainian refugees, according to a comment from Vasyl Bodnar, ambassador of Ukraine to Poland, given to Slawa TV.
The diplomat noted that "the situation with changes in Polish legislation has naturally sparked strong emotions."
However, he assured that the embassy continues to work to secure all the rights of Ukrainians, in line with the mandate given by the official government of Kyiv to Ukraine’s embassies and consulates.
"We understand that changes are underway, and we are in constant dialogue and consultations with the Polish side to ensure that the rights of Ukrainian citizens are fully protected. We are doing everything possible so that Ukrainians feel comfortable," Bodnar said.
The ambassador stressed that "it is now essential for Ukrainian citizens to comply with the current legal norms."
He urged Ukrainians to monitor the legality of their stay in Poland and to submit "all the necessary documents properly and within the prescribed timeframe."
The diplomat assured that the embassy would keep Ukrainians and the public informed about the progress of negotiations.
"(We will inform) how the legislative process is moving forward, so there are no excessive manipulations, and so that the emotions present in the media space today are grounded. We will be able to explain in detail what is actually happening and which changes are likely to succeed and which are not," Bodnar said.
Navrotskyi's controversial veto
Poland’s social initiative "800+" is a support program for families with children, including Ukrainian refugees, to help parents and guardians raise their children.
Under its terms, each family receives 800 zlotys (about 9,000 hryvnias) per child per month until the age of 18.
On August 25, Polish President Karol Navrotskyi vetoed the law on social benefits for unemployed Ukrainians. According to him, the "800+" program and free medical services should be provided only to Ukrainians officially employed in Poland.
Navrotskyi included this provision in a new draft law that has already been submitted to the Sejm.
Since June 1, the category of Ukrainians eligible for social benefits under the "800+" program has already been reduced.
