Ukraine’s National Pantheon: Poland Responds to Kyiv’s Legislation

The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has voiced concerns over Ukraine’s new National Pantheon law, warning that the inclusion of figures responsible for anti-Polish crimes could further strain historical relations.

The National Pantheon Initiative

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy submitted the bill to the Verkhovna Rada, asserting that Ukraine will define its own heroes. The Ukrainian parliament passed the law on Wednesday, with Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk stating the site will honor the “best sons and daughters of the Ukrainian nation.”

Poland’s Diplomatic Stance

Maciej Wewiór, spokesperson for the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that while Poland respects Ukraine’s right to shape its identity, he hopes the Pantheon will exclude individuals linked to crimes against Poles. He emphasized that both nations should cool historical emotions to focus on the future and their shared security against common enemies.

Historical Conflict and UPA

Tensions remain centered on the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), which Polish historians identify as the primary perpetrators of the 1943 Volhynian massacres. While Kyiv views the OUN and UPA as symbols of independence and anti-Soviet resistance, Poland officially classifies these actions as genocide, complicating current diplomatic efforts.

Diplomatic Fallout and Decorations

Recent friction, including Zelenskyy’s naming of a military unit after the “heroes of the UPA,” led to a reciprocal return of state orders and medals by officials in both Warsaw and Kyiv. Despite reports of potential compromises, such as including General Marko Bezruchko in the Pantheon, official channels remain focused on navigating deep-seated historical grievances.