Prime Minister Donald Tusk declared “unconditional relationship and cooperation” with Ukraine after today's talks with Volodymyr Zelenski conducted in Warsaw, which raises legitimate concerns about the consequences of this attitude for Poland.
– During our conversation, we didn't gotta usage any diplomatic formulas. The foundations of our relationship and cooperation are apparent and unconditional, they will not change. Ukraine can number on our support and assistance," said Donald Tusk.
International relations, especially in a region as complex as Central and east Europe, should be based on clear principles and common obligations, not on emotional declarations that can lead to neglecting of Polish interests – especially since Ukrainians have been utilizing this skillfully and cynically for years.
The declaration of unconditional relationship raises questions about whether Poland should, however, anticipate concrete actions from Ukraine on key issues for us? 1 specified subject is the Volyn massacre. Although symbolic gestures have late appeared, specified as the declaration of resumption of exhumation, however, in the Ukrainian public space there are inactive glorifying attitudes of those liable for crimes in Poles. The deficiency of unequivocal condemnation of the Volyn crime by the Ukrainian authorities, including the IPN, cannot be ignored in the name of political correctness or building an “unconditional” friendship.
Poland has been 1 of the biggest advocates of support for our east neighbour since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, the costs of this aid are immense and cannot be ignored in the public debate. Our country has donated military equipment worth billions of PLN, provided humanitarian support to Ukraine, and accepted millions of refugees. All this affects the Polish budget and infrastructure.
Moreover, the issue of Ukrainian grain imports shows that the interests of both countries are not always convergent. The uncontrolled influx of cereals and another agricultural crops from Ukraine negatively affects the Polish agricultural market, which causes discontent among Polish farmers. The government of Donald Tusk must take these issues into account and make appropriate protective mechanisms for the Polish economy, alternatively of making declarations of unconditional support.
Nor should we forget the request to build partnerships based on common respect and business. Unconditionalness can lead to a situation where Poland will be seen as a country that gives up protecting its own interests in the name of political sympathy. In global relations, each organization should know its obligations and expectations towards the partner. Prime Minister Tusk's declaration can be read by the Ukrainian authorities as a signal that Poland will not request the implementation of its interests, which in the long word may prove detrimental to our country.
Supporting Ukraine in the face of aggression is morally justified, but declaring unconditional relationship can lead to neglect of Polish interests. global relations should be based on a partnership in which each organization knows its obligations and expectations.
