A December 2023 survey shows 59.8 % of Poles agree that they feel like outsiders in relations with Ukraine, echoing President Karol Nawrocki’s remarks.
President Nawrocki’s Interview with Wirtualna Polska
On 15 December, Karol Nawrocki told Wirtualna Polska: “We should support Ukraine and already do so. At the same time we must ensure that Ukraine treats Poland as a partner. The conflict has lasted almost four years, and I feel that Poles often do not feel like partners in this relationship.”
Survey Results on Poland‑Ukraine Relations
Respondents of SW Research’s poll for dlarp.pl were asked whether they agree with Nawrocki’s assessment that Poles often feel like outsiders. 59.8 % answered “yes”, 25 % disagreed, and 15.2 % had no opinion.
Detailed Breakdown of Public Opinion
Justyna Sobczak, senior project manager at SW Research, noted that men (63 %) agree slightly more than women (57 %). Three‑quarters of respondents aged 25‑34 agree, and 70 % of those with at least vocational education do so. Two‑thirds of respondents earning over 7 000 PLN net and the same proportion from cities of 20 000‑99 999 residents see the president’s view as correct. The survey sampled 800 adults online on 16‑17 December.
Nawrocki on Partnership Expectations
In the interview, Nawrocki clarified that partnership means openness to issues highlighted by Polish society—historical matters included—and listening to such voices even during war. He added that as president he cannot, will not, or will not let Poland become a mere “corridor” or “foothold” for actions strategically important to the country. “We have expectations of Ukraine, just as of any other state,” he said.
Meeting with President Zelenski and Public Perception
On 19 December, Nawrocki met Zelenski at the Presidential Palace. After the press conference, he said that Poles feel their continued, multi‑dimensional aid to Ukraine since the full‑scale invasion has not received adequate appreciation or understanding. He described conversing with Zelenski as “firm, honest yet very courteous and gentlemanly.”