**Ukraine and Poland Strengthen Ties Amid Ongoing Conflict with Russia**
President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine held a phone call with Polish President-elect Karol Nawrocki on July 31, marking the beginning of high-level engagement between the two nations. This move comes as both countries face a common enemy in Russia’s ongoing war.
According to Rafal Leskiewicz, Nawrocki’s spokesperson, the conversation focused on strengthening cooperation between Ukraine and Poland. Nawrocki emphasized that any partnership must be built on mutual respect and trust. He also reaffirmed Poland’s continued support for Ukraine during the conflict with Russia.
Zelensky expressed gratitude towards Poland for its backing since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion. He noted that Ukraine values all forms of support provided by Poland, including military aid, political backing, and humanitarian assistance. The two leaders agreed to exchange visits and define formats of engagement that will bring real benefits for both countries and their people.
**Historical Issues Remain a Point of Tension**
One of the most sensitive topics discussed during the call was the historical issues between Ukraine and Poland. The Volyn massacres, which took place in 1943-1944, remain a key point of contention. Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) members killed tens of thousands of Poles, while thousands of Ukrainians were killed in retaliation.
Nawrocki stressed that Poland demands a change in Ukraine’s approach to this historical issue. However, Zelensky did not directly reference the Volyn issue but stated that both sides will continue discussing it during upcoming diplomatic engagements.
The Polish and Ukrainian governments have made efforts to address the Volyn legacy, including exhumations and memorial initiatives. In January, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced a “breakthrough” in resolving the matter.
**Polish President-elect’s Stance on Ukraine**
Nawrocki has previously expressed opposition to Ukraine’s accession to both the EU and NATO. As a trained historian and vocal advocate of historical recognition, he believes that Ukraine must change its approach to the Volyn events before it can join the European Union.
While supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty, Nawrocki has emphasized the need for change in Kyiv’s stance on this sensitive issue. This stance is likely to impact future relations between Ukraine and Poland.
**Conclusion**
The phone call between Zelensky and Nawrocki marks an important step towards strengthening ties between Ukraine and Poland amid ongoing conflict with Russia. However, historical issues remain a point of tension, and it remains to be seen how both countries will navigate these complexities in the coming months.
As tensions between Russia and its neighbors continue to rise, the importance of cooperation and mutual understanding cannot be overstated. The engagement between Zelensky and Nawrocki serves as a reminder that even in times of crisis, diplomacy and dialogue can lead to positive outcomes for all parties involved.
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