Head of Polish government visits Ukraine

Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has arrived in Kyiv to manifest unity with Ukraine, Poland’s neighbour which faces threat from Russia. The head of the Polish government stressed that defending Ukraine's sovereignty is in the interest of all of Europe.
“This is a moment in which all of Europe and the entire world must unite around the cause of the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine. We know well that these very values determine not only Ukraine’s raison d'état, but also that of Europe, including that of Poland”, said Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki. 

Supporting Ukraine in face of threat

On 27 January, the Polish Parliament adopted a resolution that unequivocally supports the security, territorial integrity and independence of Ukraine. Also included in the resolution was a call for the governments and parliaments of the European Union and NATO members to support Ukraine in light of the Russian aggression. Today, Poland stands side by side with Ukraine to help it protect itself against the security threat caused by Russia. 

“It matters not that our region of Europe – Poland, Ukraine – experiences no earthquakes or volcanic eruptions since living in such proximity to Russia makes one feel like living at the foot of a volcano”, said PM Morawiecki. “We know that hardly anyone in Europe is more aware than Poland of the value of security, the significance of alliances and the support of neighbours in the face of threat, and this support we wish to provide to the Ukrainian state”, he added.

Poland’s direct help for Ukraine

Poland seeks international assistance for Ukraine. Our country stands ready to provide support in terms of gas supply, as well as defence and improving Ukraine's economic stability. Poland has already started delivering humanitarian aid as well. Head of the Chancellery of the Prime Minister Michał Dworczyk participated in the handover of the first batch of humanitarian aid provided by the Government Agency for Strategic Reserves to Ukrainian authorities. Furthermore, PM Morawiecki also assured the head of the Ukrainian government of Poland’s readiness to provide Ukraine with military equipment to defend against potential Russian aggression.

“We are ready to provide Ukraine with tens of thousands of rounds and artillery shells, anti-aircraft missile sets, as well as light mortars and reconnaissance drones, and other defensive weapons”, said Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki. “Extensive assistance in terms of various defensive weapons to help Ukraine defend itself is just one aspect. Another is gas and energy policy. Finally, there is also economic. policy and humanitarian aid – the third area, in which we assist the Ukrainian state”, he added.

Bolstered energy sector cooperation

Russia’s actions also include hybrid warfare activities, affecting the energy sector by limiting gas and coal supply. The prime ministers of Poland and Ukraine discussed the development of infrastructure needed to increase the volume of west-to-east gas deliveries via Polish LNG terminals.

Russia's aggression against Ukraine

Actions taken by Moscow constitute a gross violation of international law. As a result of the increased tension, Poland’s neighbourhood faces a very high risk of armed conflict. Should Russia decide to attack Ukraine, the international community must be ready to rapidly and decisively employ all instruments at its disposal, including sanctions.

The Polish Prime Minister stressed that Crimea, as well as the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, are part of Ukraine under international law. These areas must not be deemed to lie within Russia’s zone of influence. Ukraine is a sovereign state that has chosen to integrate with Western Europe. Every country must be able to manage its own development.