LVIV — Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has reaffirmed Warsaw’s commitment to Ukraine’s support as it continues to fend off Russia’s invasion. The Polish premier made a surprise visit to the Ukrainian city of Lviv on Tuesday where he met President Zelensky.

Tusk gave Zelensky assurances that Poland is a partner Kyiv can rely on. “Our history is both complicated and beautiful. There have been many positive and negative aspects in our relations, but this is the history of nations that in the face of hardship, proved to understand the pivotal historical moment, marked by Russia’s invasion,” said Tusk in a joint press briefing following his meeting with the Ukrainian President.

“Poland’s help to Ukraine and Ukraine’s struggle. This is a great thing that was born between our peoples,” noted the prime minister.

Tusk also expressed to Zelensky Warsaw’s willingness and commitment to help Ukraine bolster its defenses. The Polish premier says his country is prepared to support Ukraine’s dreams of becoming full members of the European Union.

Poland is set to hold the presidency of the European Union for six-months starting 1 January. Tusk says Poland will act on behalf of Ukraine’s aspirations to join the bloc “the Polish presidency also means speeding up and making accession talks more realistic.” He also stated that they will do what they can “to make the prospect of Ukraine’s NATO membership for Ukraine, increasingly real,” but acknowledged that it may take time and be faced with challenges.

Tusk also announced that a new border crossing will be opened soon with Ukraine, as well as a new military aid package for Kyiv.

Zelensky has expressed his gratitude to Poland for its support throughout almost three-years of war with Russia. The Ukrainian leader also expressed his country’s appreciation of Warsaw’s pledges to facilitate the prospects of NATO membership.

"I am grateful to Poland for supporting our desire to become a full member of NATO, to receive an invitation to the Alliance as soon as possible. Poland understands how important it is in our part of Europe that security is truly guaranteed and that there is no geopolitical uncertainty,” said Zelensky in a joint press briefing following the pair’s meeting.

Tusk has previously said on 10 December that his country is prepared to initiate peace talks to end the fighting in Ukraine when they take-over the EU presidency.

Responding to Tusk’s earlier remarks, Zelensky emphasised that a permanent peace is more important than just a pause in hostilities. He continued stating that this is only achievable through the unity of all the partners and on strong shared positions and values. — Euronews