Ukraine Independence Day is a celebration of independence for all of Central Europe, and without Ukraine's independence there can be no independence for Poland or any other country in the region.
Polish President Andrzej Duda said this in a speech at Saint Sophia Square in Kiev, an Ukrinform correspondent reported.
The Polish leader stressed that Poland has supported Ukraine since the very beginning of Russian aggression.
“Ukraine's Independence Day is in a sense a celebration of the independence of the whole of Central Europe, because without Ukrainian independence it is difficult to talk about the independence and security of Poland, Lithuania or any other country in the region,” Duda said.
He stressed that Ukrainians are not alone during the difficult trials Ukraine is currently facing, saying that “Poland has supported and will continue to support Ukraine in its struggle.”
President Duda stressed that Poles understand Ukrainians better than anyone else, because Poland has lost its independence twice in history and regained it with superhuman efforts.
The Polish leader stressed that he has no doubts that the brave Ukrainian people will defend their independence in the fight against the Russian invaders. He expressed confidence that the war will soon end with the “victory of the forces of freedom over the oppressive world.”
Duda stressed that in the 1950s of the last century, a new democratic order based on mutual respect and cooperation between European countries began to take shape in Europe, which was in stark contrast to the “Russian world” – an anti-civilization of contempt, hatred and oppression.
The Polish leader stressed that Ukrainians have been part of the European community for centuries. He noted historical moments that underscore Poland's closeness with the Baltic states. Duda noted that in 1919-1920, Ukrainians fought together against the Bolshevik aggression thanks to the alliance between Petliura and Piłsudski.
He reminded that Poland was the first country to recognize Ukrainian independence in 1991 and from the very beginning Warsaw supported Kiev's pro-Western orientation.
President Duda noted that solidarity and unity are now key to Ukrainian-Polish relations and must be strengthened.
“Remember, Poland will not tire and will not abandon Ukraine on the path to the European Community. An independent Ukraine's place in Europe has proven with its determination, will to fight and its blood that the Ukrainian people have long been part of the European family. Poland will not abandon you in this struggle,” President Duda stressed.
Ukraine will celebrate its Independence Day on August 24, Ukrinform reports.
Photo: OP
