Zelenskyy warns Polish president’s anti-Ukrainian rhetoric could “end badly”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that the rhetoric of Polish President Karol Nawrocki toward Ukraine could ultimately “end badly” for him, amid growing political tensions between Kyiv and Warsaw.

In an interview with TSN television, Zelenskyy suggested that Nawrocki’s recent decisions and public statements reflect an ongoing political struggle within Poland and the use of anti-Ukrainian sentiment for domestic political purposes.

“I believe that after he made the decision [to strip Ukraine of the Order of the White Eagle - ed.], it shows that he is continuing a political struggle—essentially within his own country—by stoking sentiment and hatred toward Ukrainians. It’s a bad situation. I believe it will end badly for him,” said the Ukrainian president.

Zelenskyy added that Nawrocki is attempting to address domestic political challenges while neglecting broader Polish-Ukrainian relations.

He also emphasised Ukraine’s role in European security, arguing that cooperation between Kyiv and Warsaw remains essential in countering Russian aggression.

At the same time, President Zelenskyy emphasised that European security is impossible without unity. In his view, the Polish president’s priority should be protection against Russia.

The Ukrainian president further argued that Poland should maintain pragmatic relations with Kyiv and reconsider its current approach.

He also extended an invitation to Nawrocki to visit Ukraine.

“The President of Poland needs to find the time to visit Ukraine. This would be a sign of respect for our country. To come, discuss all the issues, and resolve them. Not everything will be resolved at once. Well, that’s only natural. But I always say that I’m ready,” Zelenskyy concluded.

By Sabina Mammadli