Poland faces divided public opinion on Ukraine aid amid historic diplomatic tensions

Two recent polls show a split among Poles over military support for Ukraine. The SW Research survey of 800 adults (7‑8 July) found 42.2 % say providing arms does not boost Poland’s security, while 38.5 % disagree. Skepticism is higher among women (44 % vs 40 % men), people aged 35‑49, lower‑income earners and residents of mid‑size cities.

A later United Surveys poll (26‑28 June, 1,000 adults) indicates 65.4 % want the government of Prime Minister Donald Tusk to coordinate its Ukraine policy with President Karol Nawrocki, versus 25.7 % preferring an independent approach. The tension has a historical dimension: Nawrocki criticised the glorification of Ukrainian nationalist groups, saying they “are not the heroes Europe needs,” and Tusk announced a “Wall of Remembrance” for Polish victims of the 1943 Volhynia massacre. The disputes were inflamed by Ukraine’s decision to honour UPA figures and the reciprocal revocation of the White Eagle Order, underscoring a fragile diplomatic relationship as Poland also supplies PAC‑3 missiles to Ukraine.