Polish President Andrzej Duda, during his visit to the United States for the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in New York, drew a vivid analogy to describe Ukraine’s reaction to Poland’s recent extension of its embargo on Ukrainian grain imports. He likened Ukraine’s response to that of a drowning person who may inadvertently harm those attempting to rescue them.
Duda’s comments came after Ukraine lodged a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO) against Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia for their decision to continue the ban on agricultural imports from Ukraine, in defiance of the EU’s decision to lift the embargo.
Addressing Polish reporters in New York, Duda emphasized, “Ukraine is behaving like a drowning person, desperately clutching at anything available. However, we have a right to defend ourselves against any harm that may be inflicted upon us.” He elaborated on the analogy, stating, “A drowning person is extremely dangerous, capable of pulling down those trying to help. Therefore, we must take measures to protect our interests effectively and decisively, as we cannot afford to be dragged down.”
Duda explained that his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky did not occur due to scheduling conflicts during the General Assembly. However, he expressed the possibility of a future meeting between the two leaders to address the ongoing trade dispute.