Polish President Andrzej Duda recently expressed disappointment over the deteriorating relationship between Poland and Ukraine, a partnership once defined by Poland’s swift and extensive support for its eastern neighbor amidst the Russian invasion. Speaking to Radio Zet, Duda conveyed his regret over the apparent shift in Ukraine’s diplomatic stance toward Poland, noting with evident frustration that, despite Poland’s significant contributions, “life is brutal.”
Poland Overlooked on Purpose or by Mistake?
The tension has been compounded by recent events in Berlin, where high-level discussions on potential paths to ending the war in Ukraine took place. U.S. President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer attended the talks. Yet, Poland—a frontline state that has arguably contributed more than most to Ukraine’s defense efforts—was noticeably absent. This exclusion has raised concerns in Warsaw, where officials feel Poland’s role in supporting Ukraine has been overlooked by Kyiv and its Western allies.
“We Gave What We Could Give”
Duda reflected on the substantial military and humanitarian aid Poland has provided since the war’s outbreak, emphasizing that Poland did all it could at a critical moment. “We gave what we could give, and we gave it quickly when it was needed, and this is our great pride,” he stated. But he admitted that, as two years have now passed since these efforts, Poland’s resources are limited, and the government is no longer in a position to supply Ukraine with the volume of arms it once did.
Shifting Allegiances and Growing German Influence
During the interview, Duda suggested that Ukraine’s government is facing increased pressure from “major donors,” countries that continue to supply the largest volumes of weaponry. He also acknowledged Germany’s growing influence in Ukraine, pointing out that Germany’s economic and financial power positions it as an attractive ally for Kyiv during such challenging times.
“Today, Germany is extending its influence in Ukraine; they are strong, stronger than us economically and financially,” Duda observed. While Poland has shouldered a heavy burden in supporting Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty, it appears Kyiv may see a stronger ally in Berlin going forward.
A Strained Friendship Amid Uncertain Future
The Polish president made clear that he remains committed to fostering a positive relationship with Ukraine but underscored the reality that Poland’s capacity to unconditionally support Ukraine has limits.