Outgoing Polish President Andrzej Duda arrived in Kyiv to satisfy with President Volodymyr Zelensky as a part of a farewell gesture forward of his departure from workplace in August, Duda introduced on social media.

"President Duda has stood by Ukraine's facet throughout probably the most troublesome occasions of Russia's full-scale aggression," International Minister Andrii Sybiha mentioned on X on June 28, which can also be Ukraine's Structure Day.

"We’re grateful to him and all Poles who’ve proven true solidarity with Ukraine."

Upon his arrival, Duda joined Zelensky in a wreath-laying ceremony honoring fallen troopers at an occasion marking Ukraine’s Structure Day.

The 2 leaders mentioned the additional improvement of relations between Kyiv and Warsaw on the EU degree and in coordination with NATO companions.

"In latest months, we’ve been implementing some pretty substantial Ukrainian-Polish agreements on protection cooperation," the Ukrainian president mentioned.

Zelensky additionally awarded Duda the Order of Freedom, considered one of Ukraine’s highest honors.

"Andrzej has been with Ukraine because the first days of the conflict, at all times facet by facet, a dependable ally and a real pal. That is undoubtedly the extent of relations we need to protect and strengthen with Poland," Zelensky mentioned.

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022, Poland has emerged as considered one of Ukraine’s most dedicated allies, offering weapons, sheltering tens of millions of refugees, and rallying worldwide help.

Over time, the relations between the 2 international locations has confronted strains as a consequence of political disagreements, financial fatigue, and disputes over grain imports and historic grievances.

In early June, conservative historian Karol Nawrocki received the second spherical of the Polish presidential election with 50.89% of the vote.

He has beforehand voiced opposition to Ukraine's membership within the EU and NATO, regardless of supporting Ukraine's sovereignty.

From unity to uncertainty: Central Europe reconsiders its Ukraine stanceIn the fourth year of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine, the decisive support Kyiv found among its neighbors to the west is beginning to show cracks. Once resolute Poland is seeing rising skepticism toward Ukraine, underscored by President-elect Karol Nawrocki’s election victory. Slovakia’s pro-Ukrainian government was ousted by Russian-friendly populistsThe Kyiv IndependentMartin Fornusek