With more and more sanctions and restrictions on access to the international financial system, the world firmly opposes the continuing escalation of violence against Ukraine and its people. 

“Ukraine, which defends its territorial integrity and independence, stands in defence of European values. Let it be clear here in Brussels that Poland, which supports Ukraine, primarily in the humanitarian, political and diplomatic dimensions, is fully aware that today Ukraine stands in defence of freedom, stands in defence of independence”, stressed the Prime Minister.

According to Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, the community must now give Ukraine clear prospects for joining the peaceful economic development project that is the European Union. 

Five steps towards Ukraine

The European Parliament has formally accepted Ukraine’s EU membership application. Poland has been among the first countries to openly declare support for this motion.

During his meeting with the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Layen, Prime Minister Morawiecki emphasized the need to take a broader look at the Ukraine issue and proposed that the EU take action through such means as: 
•    a EUR 100 billion EU-funded reconstruction plan for Ukraine; 
•    support for a fast-track accession of Ukraine to the European Union; 
•    knowledge for Ukraine – a student exchange programme to commence once peace has been achieved; 
•    joint investment projects to support Ukraine;
•    energy security by ensuring independence from Russia’s aggressive imperial policy implemented through oil, gas and other hydrocarbons.

“Also crucial is to prepare an investment package for Ukraine because the economy needs new investments and jobs, as well as energy security, which is an important element of post-war reconstruction, and may this war end as soon as possible. May it also lead to our part of Europe finally becoming independent of Russian gas, oil and coal. This is a necessary condition for long-term peace here”, PM Morawiecki explained. 

Worldwide unity and determination

The consistent efforts by the Polish government have contributed to the introduction of a broad package of sanctions against Russia and have helped to change the European community’s outlook on the energy security issue. During his Brussels visit, PM Morawiecki demanded the imposition of the most extensive package of sanctions possible, emphasizing the necessity for such action.

“I have called for an embargo on Russian coal, as well as for us to stop buying Russian oil and gas within the next several months. Today, this is the measure through which Putin is able to finance his war machine”, said PM Morawiecki. “Let us do everything to restore peace and to protect and help the innocent people in dire straits through heartfelt, humanitarian aid, as well as all the commendable efforts currently underway in Poland. I would like to once again sincerely thank all Poles involved in providing aid to our eastern neighbours”, he added.

The Prime Minister also expressed his gratitude for the widespread involvement of Poles in humanitarian aid for the conflict’s victims. “I would also like to express my thanks to everyone who has shown what Polish hospitality and openness is all about through their unwavering support for everyone who has found themselves in today’s dramatic, difficult circumstances. The level of understanding, empathy and compassion for the plight of people across our eastern border, the Ukrainian public, is truly exceptional”, said PM Morawiecki.