Published：Jun 19, 16:49Last updated：Jun 26, 08:11

Ukraine Recovery Conference Proceeds Without Zelensky Amid Strained Relations

Jun. 19, 2026 16:49

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's participation in the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Gdansk next week is still undecided. The conference is scheduled for June 25-26, 2026.

Summarized

19News

8Media

Jun. 25, 2026 20:18

Ukraine and its European allies discussed post-war recovery investments at a forum in Gdansk on June 25, 2026. The EU has already provided the first tranche of a loan, with more deals expected. However, relations between Ukraine and Poland remain strained.

Jun. 26, 2026 08:11

Ukraine and its European allies are focusing on postwar recovery investments, with the first EU loan tranche already delivered. Relations with Poland remain strained despite efforts to resolve historical disputes. The forum in Gdansk took place recently.

The Ukraine Recovery Conference in Gdansk opened on June 25, 2026, amid heightened tensions between Poland and Ukraine, with President Volodymyr Zelensky's absence underscoring diplomatic strains. Despite this, the event proceeded with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal attending and securing new billion-euro pledges for reconstruction. The conference aimed to sign approximately 200 agreements while navigating unresolved historical disputes between the two nations. RIA Novosti+2

🇵🇱 Diplomatic Tensions Escalate

The gathering followed weeks of deteriorating relations, including Poland's revocation of Zelensky's Order of the White Eagle and public protests in Gdansk against Ukraine's historical narratives. Reports indicate even Poland, previously a staunch ally, has shifted its stance on Ukraine, returning to long-standing political disputes. The absence of both Zelensky and Polish President Andrzej Duda highlighted the rift. RIA Novosti+2

💼 Reconstruction Focus Persists

Despite political friction, the summit brought together EU partners to discuss Ukraine's rebuilding, with the EU delivering the first tranche of a 90-billion-euro loan. Shmyhal received new financial commitments during the event, emphasizing the importance of continued Western support. The conference maintained its focus on post-war recovery investments, with additional deals expected. Tagesschau.de+2

🚫 Notable Absences and Protests

Zelensky's last-minute cancellation, attributed to avoiding "potential scandals," dominated discussions. Meanwhile, protesters outside the venue criticized Ukraine's stance on historical issues. While high-level participation was reduced, the conference proceeded with its agenda, including bilateral talks between Polish and Ukrainian officials aimed at easing tensions. RIA Novosti+2

GdanskDonald TuskYulia SvyrydenkoVolodymyr ZelenskyUkraine Recovery Conference