Ukraine and Poland: Dialogue Around Aid to Ukrainian Refugees After Polish President’s Veto
Tensions in diplomatic relations between Ukraine and Poland have escalated following the veto imposed by Polish President Karol Nawrótzki on a law that would extend financial support to Ukrainian refugees residing in Poland.
Ukraine’s embassy in Warsaw reports that active consultations are ongoing with the Polish government, primarily aimed at guaranteeing the rights of Ukrainian citizens and ensuring adequate social assistance.
According to Ambassador Vasyl Bodnar, diplomatic negotiations continue, with Ukraine striving to maintain an open dialogue to prevent adverse consequences for its nationals.Bodnar emphasized that each country determines the aid amount for Ukrainian refugees independently.
He added that the Ukrainian embassy will keep citizens informed about all developments in these negotiations to avoid unnecessary rumors and speculation.
It is crucial for Ukrainian citizens in Poland to receive timely and truthful information regarding any legislative changes that could affect their social guarantees.The core reason for the veto was Poland’s stance that aid should only be provided to Ukrainians working within Polish borders, a position that has sparked widespread controversy.
Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Affairs, Krzysztof Gawkowski, stated that such a decision is misguided as it could cause the loss of internet access via Starlink for Ukraine, which is vital in the current context.
In response, the Chief of the Polish President’s Chancellery, Zbigniew Bogućski, reassured that Ukraine’s internet connectivity via Starlink will not be cut and that the issue of Ukrainian data security is unrelated to the veto.
He stressed that claims about possible restrictions only serve to benefit Moscow, and that attempts to spread such disinformation are aimed at destabilizing the situation and advancing Russian interests.