Nawrocki Vows Ban on UPA Flags in Poland

During the National Day of Remembrance for the Victims of Genocide in Radruż, Karol Nawrocki condemned the display of UPA symbols, labeling the red-and-black flags as emblems of a murderous ideology.

Opposition to UPA Symbols

Karol Nawrocki expressed strong opposition to the presence of red-and-black UPA flags in Polish public spaces. He stated that these colors embody the ideology of Ukrainian nationalists who murdered Polish women and children.

Legislative Action Against Extremist Ideology

Referencing a presidential amendment proposal for the Institute of National Remembrance and the Penal Code, Nawrocki pledged to work toward a legislative ban on the display of these flags in Poland. He characterized the flag as representing the Nazi-era “blood and soil” concept.

Distinguishing Ideology from National Identity

Nawrocki clarified that Poland does not blame the entire Ukrainian nation for the atrocities, but specifically targets Banderite ideology and those who celebrate it today. He warned that tolerating the glorification of genocide serves as an encouragement for future violence.

Context of the National Day of Remembrance

July 11 marks the National Day of Remembrance for the victims of genocide committed by Ukrainian nationalists against citizens of the Second Polish Republic. This date commemorates the 1943 “Bloody Sunday,” the culmination of the Volhynia massacre.