A recent study conducted by the Julius Mieroszewski Dialogue Center has revealed a notable increase in negative sentiments among Poles towards Ukrainians, with the percentage rising to 43%. In contrast, Ukrainians maintain a largely positive view of their Polish neighbors.
In 2023, just 17% of Polish respondents expressed negative feelings towards Ukrainians, but this figure has surged to 43% in the latest findings. Meanwhile, the level of negativity among Ukrainians towards Poles has remained relatively low, increasing from 0% in 2022 to 8% recently.
The study highlights a gradual shift in public opinion in Poland. Initially characterized by widespread solidarity and support for Ukraine during the early days of the full-scale invasion, the sentiment has now transitioned to a more pragmatic approach, marked by emotional fatigue and diminishing enthusiasm.
Factors contributing to this change include lowered expectations for a swift resolution to the conflict and the impact of shifting U.S. policies, which have fostered a more cautious stance among the Polish populace regarding unconditional support for Ukraine.
Despite these evolving attitudes, the study indicates that the critical sentiments in Poland are largely directed at government policies and the distribution of aid, rather than personal feelings towards Ukrainians. Many Poles still view their interactions with Ukrainians—whether in work or education—as predominantly positive.
Researchers emphasize that these changing sentiments do not equate to a withdrawal of Polish support for Ukraine. There remains a strong understanding within Polish society that Ukraine’s resistance is vital for Poland’s own security, alongside a broad endorsement of Ukraine’s sovereignty and its right to choose its political path.
The survey was conducted in November 2025, and it underscores a complex landscape of public opinion amid ongoing political and economic tensions.
In related remarks, Ukrainian Ambassador to Poland Vasyl Bodnar noted that Polish attitudes towards Ukrainians have deteriorated since 2022, stressing the importance of distinguishing between perceptions of Ukraine as a nation at war and the individuals living in Poland.
Additionally, the survey revealed a significant decline in the willingness of Polish citizens to defend their country, particularly among those under 29, with the number of individuals ready to protect Poland nearly halving over three years.
A study indicates a sharp rise in negative feelings among Poles towards Ukrainians, now at 43%, while Ukrainians maintain a generally positive view of Poland. Despite these shifts, the fundamental support for Ukraine's sovereignty remains strong among the Polish population.