The visit of outgoing Polish President Andrzej Duda to Kyiv marked a pivotal moment in the longstanding relationship between Poland and Ukraine. Duda, who is set to leave office in August, made the trip as a farewell gesture to President Volodymyr Zelensky. The visit coincided with Ukraine’s Constitution Day, a time of national reflection and remembrance for those who perished in the war. During the visit, Duda and Zelensky participated in a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at a memorial site, honoring fallen soldiers and reaffirming their shared resolve to protect Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Duda was awarded Ukraine’s highest honor, the Order of Freedom, in recognition of his unwavering support during the war. Zelensky emphasized the importance of maintaining and deepening the relationship between the two nations, noting that Duda’s support has been a crucial pillar in Ukraine’s struggle against Russia’s full-scale invasion. Both leaders discussed the future of their bilateral cooperation, with a focus on defense and security, as well as broader strategic alignment within the EU and NATO frameworks. Despite historical tensions and recent political disagreements, the visit was seen as a reaffirmation of the strong partnership between the two countries.
Since the Russian invasion in 2022, Poland has been one of Ukraine’s most consistent and generous allies, providing military support, sheltering millions of Ukrainian refugees, and advocating for increased international solidarity. However, the relationship has not been without challenges. In recent months, the two nations have faced strains due to trade disputes, including debates over grain imports, and historical grievances, particularly regarding the Volhynia Massacre, which continues to be a sensitive issue in Polish-Ukrainian relations. These tensions were further highlighted by the recent election of conservative historian Karol Nawrocki as Poland’s next president, who has expressed skepticism toward Ukraine’s NATO and EU membership, despite his support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.
The visit by Duda underscores the importance of maintaining strong ties between Poland and Ukraine, even as political landscapes shift. With the upcoming presidential election in Poland, the relationship may face new challenges, but the deepening of diplomatic and military cooperation during Duda’s visit suggests that the partnership remains a priority for both nations. As the war continues, the collaboration between Poland and Ukraine is expected to play a critical role in shaping the future of European security and regional stability.