Chances for cutting off Russian gas

In one of his recent statements, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Witold Waszczykowski announced that within the next five years Poland is able to bring about the situation when it becomes independent of Russian gas. He also criticised the construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline.

Waszczykowski stated he has “limited trust in (…) the European institutions. In connection with this, we also take independent actions so as not to hinge solely on the dictate of Russian gas supplies”. The statement was presented in a press conference in Warsaw after a meeting with Paweł Klimkin, the head of Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The head of Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that Poland’s independence would not mean stopping the supplies, provided they would be offered on satisfactory terms – such that would be cheaper than the supplies from other parts of the world. He also reminded the construction of the LNG terminal in Świnoujście, thanks to which Poland may import gas from any country and stressed joint plans of Poland, Denmark and Norway on the construction of a direct gas pipeline which is to connect Poland with the North Sea area.

Waszczykowski spoke critically on the matter of Nord Stream 2. According to him, both Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 are political instruments. The head of Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Western European countries that believe the gas consumer market of the Western Europe has a chance to dictate supply terms to the Russians are naïve and the countries’ philosophy on cooperation with Russia and energy security and Polish outlook on the case are very different. He also announced that Poland together with Ukraine will revert to all legal measures available to make EU notice the danger.

As Klimkin reminded, Ukraine has not been buying Russian gas for over a year. Something that previously seemed impossible was reached thanks to – as he claims – “solidarity and help of friends”. Currently, Ukraine buys gas from the European Union.

Investment Outlook and Business Perspective

Poland remains one of the most attractive investment destinations in the European Union. With GDP exceeding EUR 650 billion, Poland is the sixth largest economy in the EU and the largest in Central and Eastern Europe. The country has maintained positive economic growth for over three decades, including through multiple global crises.

Foreign direct investment in Poland continues to grow, driven by the country’s strategic location, skilled workforce, EU membership, competitive costs, and improving infrastructure. Key sectors attracting investment include manufacturing, technology, business services, logistics, and financial services.

For investors considering entry into the Polish market, proper structuring of the investment vehicle is crucial. The choice between a sp. z o.o. (LLC), S.A. (joint-stock company), branch office, or joint venture depends on the investment size, sector, tax considerations, and long-term strategic objectives. Professional advisory can help optimize the structure from both operational and tax perspectives.

If you are doing business in Poland or considering entering the Polish market, Zalewski Consulting can help. Learn more about our legal advisory services, or contact us for a free consultation.