Zelensky met with friendly Polish leader: dialogue on support, security and future of Ukrainian-Polish relations
On Saturday, June 28, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, as part of an official visit, received Polish President Andrzej Duda, who arrived in Kyiv on an important mission. The Ukrainian head of state expressed deep gratitude to his Polish colleague and his country for their continued support in a difficult time for Ukraine, emphasizing that Poland acts not just as a partner, but as a true friend and reliable ally in the fight for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our state. Zelensky noted that the meeting was devoted not only to exchanging views on the current situation on the front, but also to discussing future areas of cooperation and strengthening Ukrainian-Polish relations. The President emphasized that over the past few months, significant agreements have been reached between the countries in the field of defense, which are of key importance for protecting our state from Russian aggression. He stressed the need to further deepen the partnership and preserve such principles as "For our and your freedom", good neighborliness and open dialogue to resolve any problems that arise along the way. "Adhering to these principles, we strive to do everything possible to ensure that our relations only strengthen and become even more fruitful in the future," Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted in his Facebook post, emphasizing the desire for diplomatic and political harmony between the two peoples. A special gesture of support and recognition of the significance of Polish assistance in strengthening Ukrainian defense was the signing by the President of Decree No. 439/2025. With this document, Zelenskyy awarded Andrzej Duda the Order of Freedom, which is awarded for a special contribution to supporting the territorial integrity of Ukraine and for a significant personal contribution to strengthening Ukrainian-Polish cooperation. This became a symbol of special value and respect for the friendly relations that are developing between the two countries. In turn, the Polish leader expressed gratitude to the Ukrainian authorities for the decision to grant permission to conduct exhumation work on the Polish soldiers who died in 1939. Such an initiative is of important historical and humanitarian significance, contributing to the perpetuation of the memory of the dead and the development of trust between the two peoples. Expressing this gesture, Andrzej Duda confirmed Poland's readiness to continue supporting Ukraine in its struggle for freedom and independence. In general, the visit of the Polish leader to Ukraine symbolizes not only diplomatic support in difficult times, but also the desire for a deeper partnership based on mutual respect and common values. During the meeting, it was emphasized that, despite the difficult situation with the war and the challenges of today, our countries remain united in their intentions to defend democracy, freedom and guarantee a better fate for future generations. This visit is not only a form of symbolism, but also an important step towards strengthening effective cooperation mechanisms, which is of strategic importance for both states.