Poland accuses Putin of war crimes as US envoy travels to Moscow

Thursday 22 January 2026 - 13:00

By: Sahili Aya

Poland accuses Putin of war crimes as US envoy travels to Moscow

Poland’s foreign minister has sharply criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of committing war crimes as a senior US envoy prepares to travel to Moscow for talks with the Kremlin.

Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski denounced Russia’s continued attacks on civilian infrastructure in Ukraine, particularly energy and heating facilities. He argued that these strikes are deliberately worsening living conditions during winter and forcing civilians to flee major cities.

According to Sikorski, the destruction of essential infrastructure has made large urban areas increasingly uninhabitable, pushing families from their homes despite having no role in the conflict. He reiterated his stance on social media, stressing that a fair resolution to the war requires increased pressure on Moscow rather than concessions from Kyiv.

The remarks came as US envoy Steve Witkoff was preparing for a visit to Moscow, raising questions about diplomatic efforts to end the war. Sikorski insisted that lasting peace depends on strong security guarantees for Ukraine and a clear understanding that the Russian leadership does not seek peace.

Polish President Karol Nawrocki, also present in Davos, echoed concerns over European security. In media interviews, he emphasized that Russia’s actions remain the main threat to stability in Europe and warned that Poland continues to face hybrid threats, including cyberattacks, border pressure and violations of airspace.

Despite differing political backgrounds, Poland’s top leaders appear increasingly aligned in rejecting any approach that could be seen as accommodating Moscow’s aggression.