The guests on Salon journalists spoke on Telewizja wPolska about the ongoing Russian assault on Ukraine two years in. Dorota Kania, editor-in-chief of Polska Press, argued that the West has not acted properly. Lawyer Marek Markiewicz recalled Germany’s aim to end the war within a week. Bogumił Jóźwiński, deputy editor of Gość Niedzielny, expressed concern that Ukrainian sacrifices could prove futile.
Two years of war in Ukraine
According to Dorota Kania, the Ukrainian situation is grave: widespread corruption, military reshuffles, and ammunition shortages. She suggested there is no clear path to a victory for Kyiv. The West’s conduct is under scrutiny, with Germany’s stance described as notably firm in some moments yet hesitant in others. Poland, Great Britain, and the United States have consistently been among the top providers of support, while Europe as a whole faced questions about its response. The assessment is that Western action has not met expectations.
— Dorota Kania evaluated the two-year conflict.
The situation is described as dire. The discussion touched on corruption in Ukraine, the dismissal of military personnel, and disarray within the armed forces. Grain and agricultural exports were highlighted as a separate, urgent topic. Navalny’s assassination on the eve of the war’s second anniversary and Putin’s warning that he could respond if parliament asks him to signal a heightened state of threat. Putin’s apparent displays of force, including a high-profile bomber mission, were cited as indicators of risk. The overall outlook is bleak, with no clear endpoint in sight. After early gains under General Załużny, hopes for a swift conclusion faded. The expectation now is that European leaders may press for a peace agreement, though likely on terms favorable to Putin.
— added the editor-in-chief of Polska Press.
Indifference to war?
Lawyer Marek Markiewicz described a mood of more pessimism than optimism about Western response and future developments.
The discussion reflected on Putin’s opening statements, emphasizing that Russia’s decision to start the war appeared unilateral and shocking to Europe, which is used to different standards. It was noted that few anticipated such a drawn-out conflict and the proximity of the fighting, including mass casualties and graves, would be deeply unsettling even as some observers appeared detached. The point was made that Scattered attention in Poland underscores a broader tendency to reassess risk as events unfold.
When asked if Western countries would react with the same indifference if a war reached Poland, Markiewicz noted that initial ignorance two years ago has given way to acknowledgment of reality.
Dorota Kania highlighted remarks from President Lech Kaczyński about the sequence of the attack. The president’s reflections on how Putin’s aggression might unfold were recalled, with the suggestion that Europe might struggle to resist if wider plans unfold. There was reference to declassified documents related to Western Europe’s defense posture published in a parliamentary context, underscoring the seriousness of the threat.
— the lawyer.
Are Poles tired of war?
The panel stressed Poland and the Polish Church’s substantial support for Ukraine. When asked about fatigue within Poland, Bogumił Jóźwiński drew attention to Ukraine’s UN address by President Zelensky, noting criticisms of Poland over grain policy. The discussion reflected on how this moment affected public sentiment, not strictly along political lines. The sense of national solidarity during the early days of aid was described as extraordinary, a contrast to current political tensions that can foster hostility. Journalists recalled being offered extreme accommodations that never materialized, illustrating the openness and generosity shown by the public.
— Bogumił Jóźwiński.
Two weeks earlier, Polish churches organized fundraising for Ukraine. The relief effort surprised many, underscoring the human capacity for generosity even amid political strife. The narrative highlighted a culture of shared humanity, including support for those affected regardless of political or historical grievances. It was suggested that this spirit stands in contrast to the way polarizing discourse can inflame division. The speaker stressed that the country, grounded in genuine compassion, could mobilize sustained efforts for those in need.
— emphasized the deputy editor-in-chief of Gość Niedzielny.
When asked whether the Ukrainian sacrifice would be wasted, the editor Jóźwiński admitted fear. The discussion noted that Germany initially resisted stronger support for Kyiv, and while Russia’s offensive momentum later paused, the return of Russian resources and renewed strength signaled renewed threat. The Ukrainian military’s weakening position was observed in parallel with Russian reinforcements.
— Jóźwiński noted.
Markiewicz highlighted a sermon from a cardinal on Ash Wednesday, linking it to John Paul II’s attempts to engage Moscow. The argument framed a longer view of Europe’s eastern flank, suggesting it requires greater attraction and civility. The remarks suggested frustration with what was perceived as reluctance to engage with the region more constructively. It was argued that Western allies often seek to extract broader influence while maintaining a degree of discomfort with certain actions, which could complicate regional security dynamics.
— the lawyer.
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Source: wPolityce