Zelenskyy recalls Ukrainian role in stopping Bolsheviks at Warsaw

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy honored Poland on the anniversary of the Battle of Warsaw and Polish Armed Forces Day, reflecting on the crucial role Ukrainian soldiers played in halting the Bolshevik advance in 1920. "We recall how the destiny of the Polish people and nation was determined in that battle, and how collaborative efforts thwarted the Bolshevik onslaught," Zelenskyy stated on X. "Six hundred years ago, Ukrainian troops assisted Poland's defenders in safeguarding Warsaw and halting the Bolshevik westward advance.

And today, Moscow must also suffer defeat." Zelenskyy emphasized that cooperation among neighboring nations remains as vital now as it was over a century prior. "And today, the united efforts of nations also hold significance. And today, the fate of states is also being determined—Ukraine and our neighboring countries. We remember how much we can accomplish by assisting one another," he said.

Zelenskyy added that Poland and Ukraine are contending for freedom. Poland staged a substantial military parade on August 15 to commemorate Polish Armed Forces Day, describing it as the largest in the country's history. Warsaw displayed its land, naval, and air capabilities amid escalating security threats from Russia. Troops from the United States, Canada, Australia, Lithuania, Estonia, Sweden, Romania, and additional nations also took part.

France contributed the largest contingent among allies at the parade; however, Ukrainian representatives were not invited. Poland allocated approximately 4.7% of its GDP to defense in 2025, the highest percentage among NATO members. Warsaw aims to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP in 2026.