Tusk urges Poles to curb emotions to rebuild relations with Ukraine
Photo: Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk (Getty Images)
The crisis in relations between Poland and Ukraine over historical disputes surrounding the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) has gone too far, but the leaders of both countries recognize the problem, stated Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, according to PAP.
Assessment of the presidential talks
The Polish Prime Minister welcomed the meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Polish President Karol Nawrocki on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Ankara.
According to Tusk, the public signals from both leaders show a willingness to resolve differences that only benefit the Kremlin.
"The Russians would be happiest if there were a serious crisis in Polish-Ukrainian relations," Tusk said.
Russian bots and disinformation
Tusk also pointed to the appearance of provocative content on social media targeting Polish companies that support Ukraine.
He stressed that Russian bots are often behind efforts to fuel hostility. The Polish government intends to take a tough stance against disinformation, while law enforcement agencies will prosecute any acts of discrimination based on nationality.
Tusk calls for restraint
Ahead of the anniversary of the Volhynia tragedy, the Polish Prime Minister also urged both sides to engage in dialogue without excessive emotions.
"I would like to appeal to all decent, wise, and responsible Ukrainians. Remember that this great European community is built on truth, and truth is the essential foundation of reconciliation. That is why I look forward to a reassessment by the Ukrainian side. At the same time, I also appeal to everyone in Poland to set excessive emotions aside," Tusk said.
Zelenskyy-Nawrocki meeting
The meeting in Ankara was the first face-to-face talks between the two leaders after a prolonged cooling of bilateral relations. Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with his Polish counterpart for the first time since the White Eagle Order controversy on the sidelines of the NATO summit. Officials from Ukraine's Presidential Office described the conversation as "quite lengthy."
Despite the resumption of direct contact, the key disagreements between the two countries remain unresolved. The Polish side later confirmed that Nawrocki and Zelenskyy failed to settle the historical issues that have burdened bilateral relations for years.
At the same time, the Polish President described the talks as constructive and emphasized the importance of continued diplomatic efforts.
