The newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to Ukraine, Jarosław Guzy, has arrived in Kyiv and has already presented copies of his credentials to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He awaits the forthcoming visit from the head of Polish diplomacy, Radosław Sikorski, signaling the start of a new chapter in bilateral relations.
Guzy spoke about the expectations surrounding Sikorski’s visit, noting that early talks are likely to establish a framework for the ambassador to implement Polish foreign policy on the ground. He stressed that, while ambassadors carry out policy rather than make it, their role is vital in turning strategic aims into practical steps on the ground. That is how he views his mission.
During a conversation with PAP, Guzy outlined his intent to preserve and advance the positive momentum that has characterized Polish-Ukrainian cooperation, including progress achieved during wartime and the plans the new government intends to pursue. His remarks underscored a drive to sustain and expand areas of cooperation that have proven beneficial across political, economic, and cultural dimensions, even amid ongoing conflict.
He emphasized that the strongest capital in this relationship lies in the people-to-people connections. Strengthening the social ties between Poles and Ukrainians—trust built through enduring, everyday interactions—was identified as an irreplaceable asset that future administrations in both capitals should rely on, regardless of political turbulence. In Guzy’s view, social capital is a robust foundation for enduring partnership even as governments change and regional dynamics shift.
Profile of the new ambassador
Jarosław Guzy, born in Kraków in 1955, pursued studies in sociology and history at the Jagiellonian University. His early involvement included activity with the Student Solidarity Committee, and from 1980 he was part of the Independent Students’ Association. In 1981 he was elected chairman of the organization’s National Coordinating Committee, a period marked by the national struggle for democratic reforms.
During martial law, Guzy was interned for a year, first in Białołęka and later in Darłówko, before being released and living under surveillance by the security service. In the following years, he held influential roles, including adviser to the Minister of Defense in 1992 and membership in the Movement for the Republic of Poland from 1992 to 1993. The 1990s saw him actively engaged in Poland’s NATO bid, leadership roles within the Polish Atlantic Club, including two terms as its president, and later a return to defense policy as head of a team of advisors at the National Cryptology Center from 2014 to 2017.
Guzy succeeded Bartosz Cichocki as Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to Ukraine, beginning his tenure in March 2019. He served through the challenging period of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which escalated on February 24, 2022, continuing to advocate for close cooperation between Poland and Ukraine under difficult circumstances.
The recent developments in Kyiv reflect ongoing efforts to maintain a steady and constructive channel of diplomacy. The relationship between Poland and Ukraine has grown in breadth, encompassing not only diplomatic dialogue but also economic collaboration and cultural exchange. The ambassador’s mission centers on translating this broad collaboration into concrete outcomes that bolster Ukraine’s resilience and support Poland’s strategic priorities in the region.
In discussing the broader context, observers note that the Polish-Ukrainian partnership is grounded in shared experiences, mutual interests, and a commitment to regional stability. The ambassador’s statements highlight a practical approach: respect for existing achievements and a clear plan for advancing them in the face of ongoing uncertainties.
As the diplomatic engagement progresses, the collaboration between Kyiv and Warsaw is likely to be measured by tangible results—progress on trade, security cooperation, and cultural initiatives that reinforce people-to-people ties. The emphasis remains on sustaining trust, encouraging continued dialogue, and ensuring that social capital translates into resilient, long-term cooperation that can adapt to shifting political currents.
At every turn, the aim is to maintain a constructive dynamic that benefits both nations while contributing to a stable, prosperous regional environment. The ambassador’s track record and his expressed priorities point to a steady, results-focused approach to Poland’s diplomatic mission in Ukraine, grounded in a belief that solid relationships among citizens provide the strongest mandate for policy alignment and shared progress. This perspective aligns with broader goals of strengthening European unity and security in a time of regional upheaval.
Sources referenced: wPolityce and statements reported by PAP, with attribution to the reporting organizations