Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov spoke by phone with Mariusz Blaszczak, the head of Poland’s Ministry of Defense, amid a chill in bilateral ties that has arisen after disputes over Ukrainian grain exports and the halt of arms shipments to Kiev. The two defense leaders discussed shared defense concerns and expressed appreciation for Poland’s leadership within European defense initiatives despite ongoing tensions.
In a statement posted on a social media channel, Umerov expressed gratitude for Poland’s role in coordinating tank coalition efforts and its strategic contribution to Ukraine’s defense posture during a critical period.
Earlier in mid-September, the European Union decided to lift the overall ban on grain imports from Ukraine, while certain member states including Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia extended their own restrictions on Ukrainian grain. In response, Kyiv submitted formal complaints to the World Trade Organization challenging the measures taken by these governments, arguing that the restrictions distort global trade and affect Ukrainian exporters seeking access to European markets.
September 19 saw President Volodymyr Zelensky address the United Nations General Assembly and criticize what he described as a fragmenting of European solidarity. He warned that some European partners were undermining unity through political theatrics around the grain issue, characterizing the situation as a conflict that damages collective effort and credibility on the world stage.
Poland, for its part, indicated that it would enforce its position firmly and that offensive remarks about the country would not be tolerated. The stance underscores ongoing sensitivities in regional dialogue, particularly around issues of sovereignty, agricultural policy, and national security concerns.
Meanwhile, discussions between the United States and Ukraine continued regarding security guarantees for Kiev, signaling a broader dialogue about long-term assurances and reciprocal commitments as the conflict persists and international partners seek stable, durable arrangements to deter further aggression.