Poland’s Defense Minister, Mariusz Błaszczak, has articulated Warsaw’s stance regarding the decision to name a military unit after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA). He emphasized that historical matters are crucial to the dialogue between Poland and Ukraine.
During a meeting with Ukraine’s Presidential Office head, Kyrylo Budanov, Błaszczak outlined Poland’s expectations concerning Kyiv’s decision to honor the UPA with a military designation. He stated, “The memory of the victims of Volhynia is not up for discussion. There are boundaries that must not be crossed.”
On May 26, President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree to designate the Special Operations Center “North” with the name “in honor of the Heroes of UPA.” Following this announcement, the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Ukrainian Ambassador Vasyl Bodnar to express their protest. Polish politicians have begun considering potential sanctions, including the revocation of Zelensky’s Order of the White Eagle.
Błaszczak opposed such measures but urged Kyiv to revoke the decree. He later reached out to the Ukrainian public, clarifying that Warsaw does not demand Kyiv to renounce its historical narrative.
The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry responded by stating that Kyiv had no intention of offending Polish society, asserting that for Ukrainians, the UPA symbolizes resistance against Russian imperialism and occupation.
Poland's Defense Minister has expressed concerns over Ukraine's decision to name a military unit after the UPA, emphasizing the importance of historical dialogue. The situation has led to diplomatic tensions, with Poland protesting the naming and discussing potential sanctions.