Following President Zelenskyy’s decision to name a military unit after “Heroes of the UPA,” Ukraine’s Deputy Foreign Minister met with a Polish diplomat to address the contentious historical dispute.
The Controversy Over the UPA Designation
Recent days have seen significant discussion regarding Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s decision to name a unit of the Armed Forces of Ukraine after the “Heroes of the UPA.” In Poland, the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) is recognized as a criminal organization.
Ukraine’s Official Stance and Historical Interpretation
In a statement released on Facebook on Tuesday, June 2, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry noted that mobilizing society for army support remains crucial during the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian war. The Deputy Foreign Minister emphasized that for many Ukrainians, the historical experience of the UPA is associated with the pursuit of independence, the fight against the Soviet regime, and resistance to the Soviet occupation of Ukrainian territories.
Addressing the Volhynia Tragedy
Mishchenko acknowledged that there are tragic chapters in shared Ukrainian-Polish history, specifically citing the Volhynia tragedy. He stressed that professional and objective research into the past remains the most essential approach to these sensitive issues.
Commitment to Future Cooperation
Both sides underscored the importance of working together on difficult historical questions in a spirit of mutual respect. The Ukrainian ministry noted that an objective assessment of the past is a prerequisite for understanding and a shared future. The Ukrainian diplomat also highlighted the need for reciprocal agreements on search and exhumation efforts in both countries.
Support Amidst Aggression
Oleksandr Mishchenko expressed gratitude for Poland’s consistent support for Ukraine during the ongoing Russian aggression. Piotr Łukasiewicz reaffirmed that Poland would continue to provide comprehensive assistance to help Ukraine restore its territorial integrity as soon as possible.
Polish Reactions to the Presidential Decree
Zelenskyy’s decision has sparked a wave of criticism in Poland. Prime Minister Donald Tusk described the move as troubling, while Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz labeled it unacceptable. Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski noted that the ongoing Polish-Ukrainian argument over history only serves Vladimir Putin. Meanwhile, Karol Nawrocki suggested that Zelenskyy should be stripped of the Order of the White Eagle, proposing the matter be discussed at a June 8 meeting of the Order’s Chapter.