The civilisational world order was shaken by Russia’s using the armed forces against the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine as well as by its war crimes and atrocities targeting civilians. The heroism of Ukrainians, bolstered by the solidarity and assistance of their allies, not only reflects their fight for the national freedom, but is also key to maintaining the international order and constitutes a defence of the universal values.

Since the very beginning of the war, Poland has been one of the countries most actively involved in adopting subsequent packages of sanctions affecting the Russian economy. Supporting Ukraine’s defence capabilities, as soon and as much as possible, is among top priorities of the Polish government. The supplies include weapons, ammunition and military equipment amounting to more than EUR 3 billion. Poland plays a role of a central transit hub for arms and military equipment sent to Kyiv. Most of the Western military assistance reaches Ukraine across the Polish border which, according to Ukrainian refugees, has been an open gate to the guarantee of security for women and children fleeing the war.

Poles consider “Solidarity with Ukraine” not only as a slogan, but as a call for real action. Poland has accommodated the most refugees from Ukraine, with the number of people granted a refugee status exceeding 1.55 million. Ukrainian citizens have access to the healthcare, education and public benefits to the same extent as Poles and 450,000 of them have been legally employed in our country. Thanks to Poland’s efforts, Ukraine was granted the status of a EU candidate country, which took it further on the path to full integration with the European communities.

Poland was one of the first countries to unconditionally support Ukraine, providing it with every possible assistance on an unprecedented scale. We will not cease in our efforts to mobilise our EU and UN allies and partners to take joint action to help Ukraine. It is crucial to maintain our unity and determination. Poland will continue its support as long as it takes.

 

Łukasz Jasina
MFA Spokesperson