Polish President Andrzej Nawrocki and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskye have now established a direct communication channel, marking a pivotal shift in Poland‑Ukraine relations amid lingering historical disputes.
Historical disputes keep Moscow’s mistrust alive
President Nawrocki made clear that strategic cooperation between Poland and Ukraine is being separated from other common issues. He stressed that, in practice, Moscow’s only tool to stoke conflict between the two peoples and sow mistrust among strategic partners—even allies—remains the historical disputes.
Polish and Ukrainian Presidents Now Have a Direct Dialogue
Although Nawrocki has held office for about six months, no direct communication channel had existed between the two presidents. Parliamentary cooperation existed, but a presidential dialogue was absent, causing tensions and leaving arrangements limited to who would visit whom. Zelensky’s visit surprised many observers with its constructive atmosphere. The leaders openly discussed problematic matters, focusing on frank expectations rather than “chemistry.” Despite remarks describing the meeting as revolutionary, the author cautions that such relations rely on daily, routine work. The new direct line, likened to a telephone number, enables quick discussion of disagreements. The experience echoes earlier positive intergovernmental cooperation with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
Institutional mechanisms ensure continuous engagement
Issues should not be resolved only at the level of presidents or prime ministers. Ministries, departments and services—both at the presidential level and the government—must work in a permanent, operational mode. An example from France–Germany treaty signing is cited: close cooperation between specific officials in key ministries should allow direct coordination, while only problems beyond their competence should reach the top state level. Working daily on practical matters is essential, not waiting for separate signals from Nawrocki or Zelensky.
Cultural collaboration and site exploration progress
In Warsaw, ministries of culture from both countries met to assess cooperation, which proved positive though the pace could be faster. A Polish delegation visited a site where further exhumation work is planned; a list of 26 priority sites for next year was shared with Ukraine. Both sides will continue these activities, acknowledging the constraints of wartime security but striving to maintain momentum.
Public reception and narratives shift after the visit
Comments circulating before Zelensky’s Warsaw visit were more negative, but post‑visit assessments show a clear softening of tone. The mere fact of the meeting appears to positively influence public perception, easing existing tensions.
Expanding cooperation into technology and security
Recently, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybina highlighted the need for clear reactions to hate incidents against Ukrainians, noting that Polish law‑enforcement agencies typically arrest suspects and investigate. The prolonged nature of criminal proceedings underscores the importance of not silencing such cases. In parallel, a wave of support for Ukraine has emerged in Poland, including an internet flash‑mob expressing gratitude and appreciation for Ukraine’s role in protecting Polish strategic interests. Polish business increasingly employs Ukrainians and promotes a positive image of them. Technological collaboration has also grown: Ukrainian technologies are employed in Polish production, such as drone manufacturing in the Baltic states. A recent meeting of internal affairs ministries discussed drone use, countering Russian disinformation, and Ukrainian experience in ensuring civil security. These topics are now on the agenda, suggesting continued expansion of bilateral cooperation.
