Poland in the UN

On  March 23, 2026, Poland participated in the UN Security Council briefing on the maintenance of peace and security of Ukraine.

The full statement delivered by Krzysztof Szczerski, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Poland to the UN in New York, is available below:

Mr. President,

At the outset, I thank the United States of America for convening this meeting and the briefers for their informative interventions. Poland aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the European Union.

Mr. President,

The brave Ukrainian society endured a very harsh winter while Russia fiercely attacked civilians and the critical infrastructure. The humanitarian situation remains critical. During the most freezing temperatures the Polish authorities and NGOs sent hundreds of power generators to Kyiv and other cities to alleviate this huge humanitarian crisis.

While global attention has partially shifted due to the crisis in the Middle East, the intensity of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has not diminished. We are aware that Russia is attempting to exploit this situation to advance its own agenda. The drones currently striking the Gulf countries are very much the same as the ones supplied by Iran to Russia for use in its aggression against Ukraine. States of both regions should clearly see that Russia and Iran share a strategy characterized by an aggressive stance and unprovoked, indiscriminate attacks against their neighbors, including strikes targeting residential areas and civilian infrastructure. Their conduct deserves the condemnation of the international community.  

Mr. President,

In Ukraine, with improving weather conditions, further escalation along the front line can be expected. Drones and missiles continue to target civilian infrastructure as part of Russia’s war of attrition.

And Moscow does not stop there. Poland has observed a campaign organized by Russia to recruit individuals from Africa, who are subsequently deployed to the front lines against Ukraine. In many cases, these individuals are unaware that they will be participating directly in hostilities. Russia is exploiting vulnerable populations from different regions around the world, often taking advantage of difficult economic conditions by offering deceptive employment opportunities. These people and their families are becoming victims of Moscow’s policy, which is an example of the worst neo-colonial practices.

Mr. President,

Recalling the historic session of this Council, chaired by the US First Lady and devoted to the crisis facing children in war zones, we wish to condemn the grave violations of children’s rights caused by Russia’s aggression. Hundreds of children have been killed, thousands injured, and many forcibly displaced, often separated from their families. Repeated disruptions to education are having long-term consequences for an entire generation. Particularly alarming is the unlawful transfer and deportation of Ukrainian children, which we firmly condemn and call to be immediately reversed.

Mr. President,

Poland supports peace efforts; however, it must be noted that while Ukraine has demonstrated readiness to pursue diplomatic solutions, Russia has shown no credible willingness to engage in meaningful negotiations and continues to escalate hostilities.

Therefore, we must remain united in providing comprehensive support to Ukraine, including military and financial assistance, while increasing pressure on Russia. We call for further means targeting Russia’s war economy and for additional measures to restrict the shadow fleet, which provides critical revenue to the Russian budget.

Mr. President,

To break the Russian pattern of aggression, we need to ensure full accountability for all violations of international law committed in Ukraine. Those responsible must be brought to justice, and impunity cannot be allowed to prevail.

We need unity within the international community, including within this Council, in upholding the principles of the UN Charter. Any path to peace must be based on full respect for the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders.

Poland reaffirms its unwavering support for Ukraine and its people. We call for sustained international support and safe, unimpeded humanitarian access to all those in need. We will stand in solidarity with Ukraine for as long as it takes.

I thank you.