Szłapka Warns Against Escalating Tensions With Kyiv

Amidst rising diplomatic friction over historical disputes, Polish government spokesperson Adam Szłapka cautions that inflammatory rhetoric between Warsaw and Kyiv serves only the interests of the Kremlin.

Budanov Predicts Strained Relations

Kyrylo Budanov, former intelligence officer and head of the Main Directorate of Intelligence from 2020 to 2026, currently serves as the Chief of Staff to the President of Ukraine. A close associate of Volodymyr Zelensky, Budanov stated in a recent interview that he expects a further deterioration in Polish-Ukrainian relations.

Budanov highlighted the approaching anniversary of the Volhynia tragedy on July 11, alleging that the Polish side is preparing a series of actions aimed at escalation. He emphasized that Ukraine will not accept ultimatums from any party, drawing parallels to recent Russian demands.

The Chief of Staff warned that any unfriendly policy would be met with a response. He stated that while the current situation points toward either catastrophe or de-escalation, he hopes the latter will prevail.

Official Stance on Political Rhetoric

Responding to these comments, Polish government spokesperson Adam Szłapka observed on Tuesday that politicians on both sides are engaging in rhetoric that increases bilateral tension. He stated that such verbal disputes are detrimental to both nations and undermine the strategic cooperation between neighbors.

Szłapka stressed that the duty of the government is to act in Poland’s interest, specifically by ensuring Russia does not win the war. He noted that the current and previous administrations have consistently supported Ukrainian efforts on the front lines, and warned that escalating tensions only benefits the Kremlin.

Historical Disputes Over UPA

The discord centers on President Zelensky’s decision in late May to name a Ukrainian military unit after the heroes of the UPA. This move was negatively received by Polish officials, including Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Consequently, President Karol Nawrocki revoked Zelensky’s Order of the White Eagle, leading to the President’s absence from the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Gdańsk.

On July 1, the Ukrainian Parliament passed a law to establish a National Pantheon. While Chairman Rusłan Stefanchuk stated it would house the nation’s best figures, Deputy Mykyta Poturajew did not rule out the possibility that Stepan Bandera could be among those honored.