This article discusses the growing skepticism towards Ukraine and Ukrainian refugees in Poland, as reflected in recent polls and the rhetoric of some Polish politicians. The article highlights the case of Slawomir Mentzen, a far-right politician who has become one of the most popular candidates in Poland’s upcoming elections.
Mentzen, who leads the Confederation, a party that was previously seen as openly hostile towards Ukraine, has recently shifted his rhetoric to focus on the supposed benefits of supporting Ukraine for Polish interests. He argues that Poland should help Ukraine because it is “profitable” for them and not out of sympathy or gratitude.
The article suggests that Mentzen’s campaign is designed to appeal to right-wing voters in Poland and to distance himself from other far-right politicians who have been associated with pro-Russian views. The author also notes that Mentzen has engaged in a public spat with Lviv Mayor Andrii Sadovyi, calling Stepan Bandera, a Ukrainian nationalist leader, a “terrorist” and accusing Ukraine of “worshipping criminals”.
Experts quoted in the article agree that Mentzen’s campaign is driven by election politics and that his anti-Ukraine rhetoric is a tactic to appeal to right-wing voters. They also note that historical policy plays a significant role in public discourse in Poland, which may be contributing to the growing skepticism towards Ukraine.
The article concludes by highlighting the complex dynamics at play in Polish politics and the potential implications for Ukraine’s relations with its neighbor.
