Historian on Polish-Ukrainian Dispute: Both Sides Are Acting Like Petty Adventurers

Ukrainian Catholic University professor Yaroslav Hrycak critiques the escalating diplomatic tensions between Warsaw and Kyiv, characterizing the behavior of both nations’ political elites as immature, unprofessional, and hysterical.

Historical Reconciliation vs. Present Reality

Professor Yaroslav Hrycak of the Ukrainian Catholic University in Lviv compared Polish-Ukrainian relations to the post-WWII reconciliation between France and Germany. He noted that while historical reconciliation once provided a foundation for European expansion to the east, current leadership lacks the maturity to sustain it.

Hrycak stated that improved relations depend on political responsibility and dialogue. He criticized both nations, describing the Ukrainian side as characterized by chaos and a lack of professionalism, while labeling the Polish side as hysterical. He dismissed the leadership of both countries as acting like “petty adventurers.”

Escalation Over the Order of the White Eagle

The diplomatic friction intensified after Volodymyr Zelenskyy named a military unit “Heroes of the UPA,” citing a need to restore historical traditions and acknowledge the unit’s defensive performance. In response, Karol Nawrocki revoked Zelenskyy’s Order of the White Eagle.

Zelenskyy returned the order to Nawrocki, asserting that he aims to avoid contradictory interpretations of the past while maintaining cooperation with Poland. The Ukrainian president further alleged that Nawrocki’s actions were driven by internal Polish power struggles, specifically targeting his standing against Prime Minister Tusk ahead of election cycles.