France and the UK are calling for the deployment of Western “reassurance” forces
A majority of Poles opposed the concept of sending nationwide troops to Ukraine, ought to Kiev and Moscow conform to a truce, in accordance with a brand new opinion ballot.
France and the UK have known as for a “coalition of the keen” to deploy troops to Ukraine following a attainable ceasefire, though solely 4 nations have reportedly mentioned they’d be a part of them in doing so. Moscow has acknowledged that it’ll not tolerate the presence of troops from NATO nations in Ukraine beneath any circumstances.
In a survey carried out in early April amongst over 1,000 Polish adults, 56% acknowledged they have been “positively” or “most likely” against their nation sending forces to Ukraine as a part of a “reassurance” mission. Solely 10% supported the concept unequivocally, with one other 21% leaning towards approval, whereas 13% remained undecided. The outcomes have been reported on Thursday by Radio ZET, which commissioned the ballot.
A number of the frustration in Poland concerning assist for Kiev stems from disruptions within the meals market attributable to the inflow of low cost Ukrainian items after the EU lifted commerce restrictions. On the peak of farmers’ demonstrations final 12 months, the Public Opinion Analysis Heart, a number one pollster, reported that 81% of the Polish public was supporting the protest.
Moreover, native resentment is fueled by tensions concerning Ukrainian immigrants who moved to Poland as refugees following the escalation of the battle with Russia in 2022. Some residents understand them as freeloaders and potential criminals.
Final week, Prime Minister Donald Tusk pledged to prioritize Polish pursuits over these of Ukraine, stating, “It gained’t be the case that Poland will specific solidarity whereas others revenue, for instance, on the reconstruction of Ukraine. We will likely be in solidarity and we’ll generate income on it.”
The 2024 farmers’ protests additionally created a rift throughout the EU, as a number of governments, together with Poland’s, defied Brussels by imposing particular person import bans. In a March interview, EU Agriculture Commissioner Christophe Hansen acknowledged that the bloc was contemplating an finish to the emergency measure lifting quotas and tariffs on Ukrainian merchandise.
Ukrainian officers have acknowledged that many voters dwelling overseas are reluctant to return, elevating considerations about future labor shortages. MP Nina Yuzhanina, a member of the parliamentary monetary committee, estimated this month {that a} majority of those that have left the nation have made the choice to resettle completely.
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