KYIV, Ukraine (Reuters) — During a joint press conference in Kyiv on August 24, 2024, Polish President Andrzej Duda announced significant military and diplomatic support for Ukraine as it continues to resist Russian aggression. Speaking alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė, Duda revealed that Poland has trained 23,000 Ukrainian soldiers and confirmed that Polish RT-91 tanks are now operational in the Kursk region, where intense fighting has been reported.
“Ukraine is showing its resolve against Russian aggression and is making the cost of war clear,” Duda said, according to reports by Ukrinform. He emphasized that Poland remains a steadfast ally of Ukraine, not only in the ongoing conflict but also in the broader geopolitical struggle against Russian expansionism.
Duda also announced the establishment of a NATO-Ukraine center in Bydgoszcz, Poland. This center will be the first of its kind, symbolizing the deepening military ties between Ukraine and the NATO alliance. The creation of this center underscores Poland’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s aspirations for NATO membership, a goal that both Duda and Zelenskyy reaffirmed during their discussions.
The press conference was held during Duda’s surprise visit to Kyiv, where he joined President Zelenskyy, First Lady Olena Zelenska, and Prime Minister Šimonytė in celebrations for Ukraine’s Independence Day. The event was marked by the participation of leaders from the Lublin Triangle—an initiative aimed at fostering closer cooperation between Ukraine, Poland, and Lithuania.
“Ukraine’s Independence Day being celebrated within the Lublin Triangle format highlights the unity and shared vision of our nations,” Duda said. He expressed his confidence in Ukraine’s ultimate victory over Russia and pledged Poland’s active involvement in the country’s post-war reconstruction efforts.
Duda’s visit and statements come at a crucial time as Ukraine’s conflict with Russia drags into its third year, with no end in sight. Poland has been a key supporter of Ukraine since the outset of the war, providing military aid, training, and diplomatic backing within international forums.
The press conference in Kyiv further solidified the strong alliance between Ukraine and its neighbors, Poland and Lithuania, as they work together to counter Russian aggression and build a future for Ukraine within the European Union and NATO.