Ukraine Urges Cooperation with New Polish President

Right-wing politician supported by the opposition Law and Justice (PiS) party, replaces outgoing conservative President Andrzej Duda. Whereas Duda was supportive of Ukraine's NATO aspirations, Nawrocki has raised concerns, prompting a possible dramatic showdown between the alliance and Russia if Kiev were an ally. Nawrocki, during his campaign, said Ukraine's signing a NATO membership plan would mean the entire alliance going against Russia.

Historical Disputes and Uncertain Support
Nawrocki's position on the historical disputes between the two countries is also a concern for Kyiv, including over the Volhynia massacres during World War II, during which Ukrainian nationalists killed Polish civilians. Nawrocki stated that clearing up these historical issues is a necessary condition for the Polish side to support Ukraine in joining the EU and NATO.

In his inaugural speech, Nawrocki did not mention Ukraine—a fact that only fueled more speculation on a potential reversal in Polish policy toward its neighbour to the east. The full Russian invasion of Ukraine was launched in February 2022, and this has caused increased reliance on support from Poland.

Efforts to Maintain Cooperation
Nevertheless, Ambassador Bodnar reassured that Ukraine is open to all areas of cooperation with Poland, from defence and postwar recovery to historical difficulties. He said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy congratulated Nawrocki and talked by phone with him, inviting him to Ukraine. We should hear a date for the visit shortly.

Bodnar said that this was positive for Polish-Ukrainian reconciliation, as Ukraine has permitted the exhumations of Polish victims on its territory. He criticised Poland for not doing the same and asked that it show a similar degree of openness to exhumations on its soil. The emphasis on continued cooperation is an important one, with Bodnar noting how Poland's contributions to logistical support and military aid are critical for preserving stability in the region.