Estimated reading time: 1 minute
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s handling of the recent grain dispute with Poland and other EU countries draws criticism and may benefit Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been a prominent figure in Ukraine’s response to the ongoing conflict, but recent developments in a grain dispute with Poland and other EU nations have raised concerns. Slovenia’s “Dnevnik” newspaper argues that Zelenskyy’s approach has been less than ideal. The newspaper criticizes his public anger towards countries that have assisted Ukraine differently, deeming it unnecessary. It also questions the haste in taking the matter to the World Trade Organization.
According to “Dnevnik,” Zelenskyy could have avoided a situation now advantageous to Russia. The Kremlin has fewer reasons to renew the agreement for Ukrainian grain exports via the Black Sea. Moreover, Ukraine may soon find itself surrounded by countries skeptical of aiding Kiev. Hungary has long been open about its stance, and Slovakia, where pro-Russian sentiments are on the rise ahead of parliamentary elections, joins the list. Poland’s unilateral embargo on Ukrainian grain appears driven by domestic political considerations, aiming to secure support from farmers.
Challenges also loom in the United States, where some politicians frame aid to Ukraine as prioritizing Kiev’s security over U.S. interests. Ukraine’s diplomatic finesse will be tested as it navigates these intricate geopolitical waters.