Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiha, joining the meeting via videoconference, who updated the Council on the latest developments on the front line. Minister Sikorski emphasised Poland’s consistent position: that protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, which should be firmly anchored in the EU and NATO, is a prerequisite for restoring order in Europe. The Polish foreign minister condemned the escalating Russian attacks and stressed the need for continuing support for Ukraine, including military support, increasing sanctions pressure, and fighting the Russian shadow fleet. He also called for the urgent adoption of the 18th round of sanctions against Russia. He reiterated his regret that it is not possible to open the accession negotiations with Ukraine as a result of Hungary blocking the talks.  

The head of Polish diplomacy stressed Israel’s right to defence, while condemning violations of the international, including humanitarian, law on the occupied Palestinian territories. He pointed out the urgent need for humanitarian support for the population in the Gaza Strip, and the validity of imposing sanctions on the extremist Israeli settlers in the West Bank and their political sponsors.

Furthermore, Minister Sikorski noted with growing concern the political situation in Georgia, which increasingly resembles an authoritarian model of government, while Russian influence is also on the rise. He stated that Poland expects the Georgian authorities to immediately release the detainees and engage in a dialogue with the opposition parties. He expressed his support for the measures proposed to Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas, including in the area of sanctions.

As 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the launch of the Barcelona Process (transformed into the Union for the Mediterranean in 2007), the Council held a discussion on the reform of the Union. Poland supports increasing the visibility of the Union for the Mediterranean, but does not agree to introducing mandatory contributions.

 

Photo: Gabriel Piętka/MFA