In a bold move, Warsaw’s President Rafał Trzaskowski has denied Russia’s request to grant perpetual usufruct rights to the property at al. J. Ch. Szucha 7, currently occupied by the Ukrainian Embassy. This decision comes as a significant victory for Ukraine and a testament to Poland’s commitment to supporting its eastern European neighbor.
The Russian Federation’s claims to the property were rejected due to both formal and political reasons, including the ongoing war in Ukraine. #StandWithUkraine
The President’s decree rejected Russia’s application, citing the lack of required permits and the potential consequences of granting such rights. This decision ensures the Ukrainian Embassy’s continued safety and security in the heart of Warsaw.
„We have already initiated proceedings to regain control over the property at ul. Sobieskiego 100, and today we reviewed the application concerning the property at al. J. Ch. Szucha 7, currently occupied by the Ukrainian Embassy. I have issued a negative decision, rejecting Russia’s claims to this territory, citing both formal and political reasons, including the ongoing war in Ukraine,” stated President Rafał Trzaskowski.
The property in question, located at al. J. Ch. Szucha 7, is part of the area covered by the Bierut Decree and is owned by the Polish State Treasury. In 1946, the Trade Representation of the Soviet Union in Poland acquired the property, and in 1948, it requested permission to use the land in exchange for a symbolic rent.
In the 1990s, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the Ukrainian Embassy began operating from the building. The Russian Federation, as the legal successor to the USSR, submitted an application to establish perpetual usufruct rights to the property.
However, the application remained unresolved, and the President’s decision took into account the lack of necessary permits and the potential impact on the Ukrainian Embassy’s operations. Granting Russia’s request would have resulted in significant consequences, including the possible demand for the embassy’s premises, which are inviolable under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
In rejecting Russia’s claims, Warsaw has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the principles of international law and supporting Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.
Poland has a long history of providing support to Ukraine, including €1.5 billion in aid since the start of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict in 2014. This latest decision demonstrates Warsaw’s continued dedication to strengthening ties with Kyiv and promoting regional stability.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues to evolve, Poland’s stance serves as a beacon of hope for the region. By standing with Ukraine, Warsaw is sending a clear message to Moscow: that the international community will not tolerate aggression and that the sovereignty of nations must be respected.
In this time of uncertainty, Poland’s decision is a testament to the power of diplomacy and the importance of standing together against authoritarian regimes. As the world watches the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Warsaw’s actions serve as a shining example of solidarity and a commitment to upholding the principles of international law.
