President Volodymyr Zelensky’s remarks at the United Nations General Assembly drew mixed reactions from Poland and other states. A notable comment from Marcin Przydacz, the head of the presidential International Policy Office, suggested in a Radio ZET interview on September 26 that some advisers surrounding the Ukrainian leader may have steered him poorly. This echoed wider concerns about how the speech was received across Europe and beyond.
During the September 19 UN session in New York, Zelensky remarked that it is troubling to see some European allies use solidarity as political theater, likening it to a thriller centered on grain policies. He implied that certain European actors were merely playing a role, while Moscow benefited from the theatrics. He later insisted that those observations were not hyperbole but a reflection of the underlying strategic dynamics at play.
Concern over Emotions and Advice
Processing these remarks, Przydacz stated on Radio ZET that the Ukrainian address met with sharp criticism in Poland and other nations. He suggested that strong feelings or unsuitable counsel might have colored Kiev’s approach to the crisis. He cautioned that there are many individuals around Zelensky who, in plain terms, could be giving the wrong guidance. He argued that severing ties with proven allies would not serve Ukraine’s interests.
The Ukrainian president’s UN address, delivered before representatives of 193 member states, attracted intense scrutiny from diplomats who wondered about the direction of the conversation. The president’s remarks framed a conversation about alliances, strategy, and the messaging surrounding support for Ukraine.
Path to Constructive Engagement
When asked whether the Polish and Ukrainian presidents would speak by phone after their meetings at the UN failed to materialize, Przydacz said diplomatic channels remained active at multiple levels. He noted that a simple phone call is not sufficient on its own; the purpose should be to drive constructive outcomes and to avoid inflammatory language that has been a feature of some Ukrainian statements. Such an approach would promote deliberate, respectful dialogue and real progress.
He underscored that Warsaw and Kiev maintain ongoing contacts to resolve outstanding issues, and that a more constructive tone from both sides could elevate discussions to a higher level if needed.
Asked about the possibility of Poland continuing to supply weapons to Ukraine, Przydacz affirmed that assistance in the form of arms is consistent with Poland’s view of supporting a state resisting imperial aggression. He framed arms support as backing a nation confronting a larger aggressor rather than merely aiding Ukraine in isolation.
Discussion of the Border and Media Portrayals
Przydacz also addressed a controversial Dutch film on the border crisis. He pointed out that President Andrzej Duda, while representing all Poles, may hold a personal opinion about the film and that his candid remarks were warranted. He noted that the president’s role does not require unanimous agreement on every issue.
In his remarks, Przydacz mentioned conversations with hundreds of people, including border guards and their families, who felt that their work and sacrifices at the border were not fully understood by some in Warsaw’s cultural circles. He described a perception that the bravery of border personnel is sometimes overlooked, especially when discussed in quieter, nighttime settings at the frontier.
The dialogue on these topics continues as Poland and Ukraine seek to find a productive path forward that honors alliances, ensures security, and maintains open lines of communication.
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Mon/PAP/Radio ZET
Source: wPolityce