Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday underscored the importance of maintaining strong relations with neighboring Poland, as the country prepares to swear in its newly elected president, Karol Nawrocki, who has openly criticized Kyiv’s NATO ambitions.

Speaking alongside outgoing Polish President Andrzej Duda during a meeting in Kyiv, Zelensky said the alliance between the two nations must endure despite political changes.

“Poland is now preparing for the inauguration of its new president, Karol Nawrocki,” Zelensky said. “We will do everything in our power to ensure that relations between our countries only grow stronger.”

He described continued cooperation with Poland as “extremely important,” highlighting the need for mutual support and understanding.

Poland has played a vital role in Ukraine’s defence against Russia’s invasion, acting as a key transit point for Western military assistance. Since the war began in 2022, over a million Ukrainians have taken refuge in Poland.

However, tensions have risen amid growing anti-Ukrainian sentiment, which was amplified during Nawrocki’s campaign. The nationalist leader, who won Poland’s presidential election earlier this month, accused Zelensky of “indecent” behaviour and claimed Ukraine had shown a lack of gratitude for Polish support.

Although Nawrocki has promised to continue supporting Ukraine’s war effort, he has been critical of benefits extended to Ukrainian refugees.

Duda, addressing concerns over Poland’s future foreign policy under Nawrocki, said he believed the incoming president would work to strengthen bilateral ties.

“From behind the president’s desk, the world looks a little different—especially compared to the position of a candidate during elections,” Duda remarked.

Nawrocki is set to be inaugurated on August 6.