Historical grievances further complicate the trade talks.
The Volhynia Massacre, a World War II-era atrocity that remains a sore point in Polish-Ukrainian relations, has resurfaced in the public discourse. While Poland and Ukraine have worked to deepen ties since the Russian invasion, festering historical wounds and nationalist posturing on both sides are undermining trust.
“On the Polish side, there is no positive answer to the question of how to build these relations,” said Smolar. “On the Ukrainian side, too, it is difficult to demand any political creativity today — they are at war, after all.”
Under Tusk’s reign, Poland’s presidency is widely seen as a chance to inject momentum into Ukraine’s longer-term EU trajectory.
But the strained dynamic raises concerns about Poland’s role in spearheading EU efforts to assist Ukraine in its ambitions. While leaders publicly champion Kyiv’s cause, behind closed doors, concerns are mounting over the practicalities of integrating a war-torn nation — and its vast agrarian sector — into the bloc.
And when it comes to trade in agriculture, domestic pressures will likely take precedence for the Polish prime minister, threatening to stall progress and potentially leaving the EU scrambling to salvage the deal with Kyiv.
“It’s not strange — other leaders have done it,” the EU diplomat said.
Camille Gijs contributed reporting.