Poland, a staunch supporter of Kyiv in its conflict with Russia, made a significant announcement on Wednesday evening. Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki stated on Polsat News that Poland would temporarily suspend arms deliveries to Ukraine until the grain crisis is resolved.
Morawiecki expressed, “We have decided to cease providing weapons to Ukraine. Instead, our focus will be on equipping ourselves with state-of-the-art weaponry.” He emphasized Poland’s commitment to modernizing and rapidly strengthening its own armed forces, with the aim of becoming one of Europe’s most formidable military powers.
Addressing the grain crisis, Morawiecki clarified that while Poland remains a steadfast ally in Ukraine’s battle against Russia, it cannot tolerate disruptions in the Polish market. He assured that Poland will continue to facilitate the transit of Ukrainian goods, which is economically advantageous for the country.
Morawiecki reaffirmed Poland’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s security, highlighting the ongoing role of the Rzeszow hub in collaboration with the United States and NATO.
Responding to questions about whether these statements were motivated by domestic political considerations, especially in the lead-up to the October 15th election, Morawiecki asserted that such factors did not influence their decision-making.
Morawiecki expressed regret about Ukrainian oligarchs flooding the Polish market with grain without considering the impact on Polish farmers, resulting in a significant drop in prices. He noted that Poland had to guarantee a price of PLN 1,400 (€360) per ton of Polish wheat in the spring and has fulfilled its commitments. He added that there are currently no threats from Ukrainian grain, as Poland has restricted its import.
The prime minister underscored that the government has taken appropriate measures to address the grain issue.
Regarding Polish President Andrzej Duda’s recent statement in New York likening Ukraine’s actions to those of a drowning person “grasping at everything,” Morawiecki concurred, describing Duda’s words as “highly accurate.”
Source: with agencies