Kyiv Official Warns of Polish Ties; Sikorski Calls for Calm

A senior Ukrainian presidential official warned that bilateral tensions with Poland will soon reach a breaking point, prompting a measured, diplomatic response from Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski.

Rising Tensions Over Historical Disputes

Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Ukrainian presidential office, stated in an interview with RBK-Ukraine that relations with Poland are approaching a climax. He pointed to July 11, the anniversary of the Volhynia massacre, as a focal point, alleging that the Polish side is preparing for further escalation.

Budanov rejected the idea of ultimatums, stating that Ukraine would not accept demands from any party. He argued that even Russia’s pressure had been resisted, and that Ukraine would not be swayed by different approaches from other actors.

Sikorski Urges De-escalation

Responding to these comments during a NATO summit in Ankara, Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski emphasized the need to lower regional tensions. He noted that he had already discussed the matter with his Ukrainian counterpart, reminding Kyiv that Poland has provided significant support and that emotions should be kept in check.

Sikorski highlighted Poland’s standing as a model ally within NATO. During the summit, he participated in a high-level E5 meeting involving representatives from Italy, Germany, France, the UK, Turkey, and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, as well as discussions on industrial and defense cooperation with US officials including Marco Rubio.

Historical Roots of the Conflict

Relations have been strained by disputes over historical memory, notably President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s decision to name a military unit after the “Heroes of the UPA.” This move faced widespread criticism in Poland, leading to the rescinding of an order previously granted to the Ukrainian president.

The Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) remains a divisive topic. While Poland classifies the 1943 events as genocide committed by nationalist factions, many in Ukraine view the UPA as symbols of resistance against the Soviet Union, highlighting deep-seated differences in national narratives.