A government representative, Szymon Szynkowski vel Sęk, spoke on RMF FM regarding remarks attributed to Ukraine’s Deputy Economy Minister. The Ukrainian official warned that any Polish restrictions on Ukrainian grain after September 15 would prompt a case at the World Trade Organization, and that such moves could become part of broader diplomatic pressure. Szynkowski vel Sęk described the warning as a form of pressure—one element in a tactic used during the ongoing war, a tactic meant to sway policy decisions. He emphasized that Poland’s priority remains protecting its farmers and citizens, and that threats do not influence the country’s stance.
The spokesman underscored that while Ukraine sometimes leverages diplomatic tools beyond traditional channels, Warsaw monitors actions at the EU level. When EU-wide responses are slow or constrained, national steps may be considered, but the goal is to secure coordinated decisions through the European framework. Poland asserts it possesses strong arguments, which are presented by the Agriculture Minister and by Commissioner Wojciechowski at relevant EU forums to seek an updated EU stance that would extend any protective measures.
Historical timeline of grain import measures
In early May the European Commission, working with Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia, implemented a temporary halt on the import of wheat, maize, rapeseed, and sunflowers from Ukraine. The measure, designed to shield local producers, was initially set to end on June 5 and was subsequently extended to September 15. Transit of Ukrainian grains through the border countries remained allowed, ensuring some continuity for supply chains while the situation was reviewed.
In July, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki stated that if the European Commission did not extend the ban beyond September 15, Poland would close its border to these goods. Later, Minister Telus indicated that the leaders of the frontline agriculture ministries favored maintaining the ban at least through the end of the year, reflecting a shared concern for farm viability and regional market stability. The dialogue continued with the aim of a European-wide resolution that would support farmers without triggering broader trade disruptions.
tkwl/RMF FM/PAP
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