Zelenskyy, Duda discuss Ukraine-Poland defense cooperation, Ukraine’s EU aspirations

“Our common border should be a true European border. A border of unity. There should be no borders between our people,” Zelenskyy said.

byIryna Voichuk

09/01/2024

2 minute read

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a phone conversation with Polish President Andrzej Duda on 9 January 2023. Credit: Presidential Office

Zelenskyy, Duda discuss Ukraine-Poland defense cooperation, Ukraine’s EU aspirations

In a recent phone conversation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Polish President Andrzej Duda discussed several key issues reinforcing the cooperation between the countries. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to Poland for its steadfast support of Ukraine’s ambitions to join the European Union and NATO.

“Our common border should be a true European border. A border of unity. There should be no borders between our people,” Zelenskyy said.

Highlighting Poland’s role in backing Ukraine’s EU negotiations, Zelenskyy and Duda also explored avenues for securing the European Union’s financial and political backing for Ukraine. The discussion extended to the upcoming NATO Summit in Washington, with both leaders acknowledging the importance of their cooperation for the broader European community.

Zelenskyy remarked on the unity and mutual support between Ukraine and Poland, stating, “I am convinced that the future of Ukraine and Poland lies in unity, mutual support, and mutually beneficial cooperation.” He also thanked Poland for endorsing Ukraine’s Peace Formula and for sending a representative to the next meeting of state heads’ advisors in Davos.

The defense sector was another crucial topic, with the Presidents delving into the needs of the Ukrainian Defense Forces. Zelenskyy briefed Duda on the recent Russian missile attacks in Ukraine, highlighting civilian casualties and infrastructure damage, and stressed the urgency of enhancing Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.

Additionally, Zelenskyy raised the prospect of Poland joining the G7 leaders’ Joint Declaration on security commitments for Ukraine. The Presidents concluded by discussing plans for further bilateral engagements, underscoring the ongoing cooperation and shared goals of their countries.

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