Russia strikes Ukrainian cities ahead of key Zelenskyy meetings in U.S.
PBS NewsHourOct 02, 2023
The Facts
Poland's PM Mateusz Morawiecki on Friday warned Ukrainian Pres. Volodymyr Zelenskyy "never to insult Poles again, as he did recently during his speech at the UN."
Adding that Warsaw will defend its position in the current geopolitical context, Morawiecki said: "The protection of Poland's good name is not only my duty and honor, it's also the most important task of the government of the Republic."
The Spin
Narrative A
Morawiecki's comments are driven by the upcoming Polish election. Since the far right criticizes his government's attitude to Ukraine as subservient, the Polish PM is adopting a more aggressive approach to Kyiv at the cost of shaking the country's staunch relationship with its neighbor.
Narrative B
While Warsaw will continue to support Kyiv against Russia's invasion, the Polish government is obliged to protect and safeguard its citizens against intimidation, aggression, and unfair economic competition. Zelenskky's irresponsible comments will only strain ties between the two nations.