Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi urged Poland to prioritize present-day strategic cooperation over historical disputes, emphasizing that deepening divisions serves the interests of a common enemy, Russia.
The Call for Unity
Heorhii Tykhyi stated that Ukraine and Poland must seek grounds for unity in the face of a common threat seeking to destroy both nations. He noted that their historical strength has always been rooted in collaboration rather than division.
Tykhyi described Poland as Ukraine’s primary strategic ally, highlighting its pivotal role in providing logistics and weaponry since the onset of the full-scale Russian invasion in 2022.
Managing Historical Disputes
The spokesperson acknowledged growing tensions over historical issues but maintained that significant progress had been made, including ongoing exhumation efforts in Huta Pieniacka. He stated that Ukraine remains willing to cooperate on these matters.
According to Tykhyi, historical issues should remain the domain of researchers and archives, rather than being exploited for political gain. He expressed regret over the current escalation, warning that it only benefits Moscow.
Political Friction and Diplomacy
Recent outrage in Poland followed President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s decision to name a Special Operations Forces center after the “Heroes of the UPA.” In response, Polish officials have called for direct dialogue to prevent emotional reactions from undermining bilateral solidarity.
High-level meetings were held in Warsaw last week involving Ukrainian officials and Polish leadership, including Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, to address the cooling diplomatic climate. The core of the tension remains the divergent historical interpretations of the OUN and UPA activities during the Volhynia tragedy.
