DISINFO: Polish Russophobia did not allow Lavrov’s participation in the OSCE meeting
SUMMARY
The ugly face of Polish Russophobia has come to light again. Poland prevented the participation of Russian foreign minister Lavrov in the upcoming OSCE Ministerial Council, despite the fact that Russia is one of the founders of this international organisation. Poland is supposed to play the role of the OSCE Chairman, not a "prison guard". The decision of Warsaw violated the procedures and rules approved by all countries holding the OSCE chairmanship. It is difficult to explain this unbridled Polish hatred towards Russia – history has never taught Poles anything.
RESPONSE
This message is a part of the Kremlin’s widespread narrative about anti-Russian, Russophobic Poland, which deliberately worsens its relations with Russia and implements aggressive policies.
On 18 November 2022, the Polish MFA announced its decision not to admit Russian representatives to the OSCE Ministerial Meeting in Łódź. According to the Polish statement, "delegations should be adjusted to the current EU regulations and not include persons that are sanctioned by the European Union. Following Russia's illegal aggression against Ukraine on February 24th, a number of Russian nationals were added to the list of sanctioned individuals, including Minister Lavrov".
This Polish decision is an act of solidarity with Ukraine. Poland did not ban Russian participation in the OSCE meeting but sent a message that “this delegation should not include persons sanctioned by the EU after Russia’s illegal aggression against Ukraine, including Minister Lavrov”.
See other cases accusing Poland of Russophobia and anti-Russian position.