Polish President Nawrocki Declines Meeting Putin Despite US Invitation to G20 Summit

Polish President Karol Nawrocki told journalists in the Philippines that he has no plans to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin, describing him as a dictator responsible for the war in Ukraine. Nawrocki highlighted Poland’s role in international bodies such as the United Nations and the Security Council, and said he will attend the December G20 summit in Florida as a guest of the United States, representing Poland and the Three Seas Initiative.

The United States, via Secretary of State Marco Rubio, extended an invitation to Putin, framing it as an opportunity for dialogue with world leaders. Kremlin spokesman Dmitrij Pieskow responded positively, expressing gratitude for the US invitation. Meanwhile, Polish foreign minister Radosław Sikorski reiterated his refusal to shake Putin’s hand, referencing an International Criminal Court arrest warrant. The statements underscore persistent diplomatic friction ahead of the summit.