Poland’s Minister Coordinator for Special Services, Tomasz Semoniak, has endorsed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s choice not to attend the upcoming Ukraine Recovery Conference in Gdańsk. His remarks come in response to comments made by Marcin Przydacz, head of the International Policy Office at the Polish President’s Administration, who suggested that Zelensky’s absence would embarrass Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
Semoniak expressed disapproval of Przydacz’s statements, emphasizing that a president’s chief diplomat should adhere to certain diplomatic protocols. He noted that a month ago, the sentiment would have been that Zelensky’s presence was essential. However, he argued that, given the current circumstances, Zelensky’s decision is appropriate and contributes to reducing tensions between the two nations.
He further mentioned that Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko would lead the Ukrainian delegation at the conference, highlighting her significance in Ukraine’s political landscape. Semoniak asserted that Zelensky’s absence would prevent potential friction that might arise from discussions surrounding historical issues, particularly those related to the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), which could dominate media inquiries during the event.
Background:
- On June 23, it was announced that Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko would head the Ukrainian delegation in Gdańsk, and President Zelensky would not attend.
- Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated that the Ukraine Recovery Conference would proceed effectively regardless of the composition of the Ukrainian delegation.
Poland's intelligence minister has backed President Zelensky's decision to skip the Ukraine Recovery Conference, citing diplomatic considerations and the need to ease tensions. Prime Minister Tusk affirmed the conference's effectiveness despite Zelensky's absence.