The Speaker of the Polish Sejm, Włodzimierz Czarzasty, has expressed disapproval of Ukraine’s recent decision to name a military unit after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), labeling it a mistake. He emphasized the importance of maintaining dialogue between Poland and Ukraine, warning that escalating tensions would only benefit Russia.
During an interview, Czarzasty was asked to comment on Polish President Karol Nawrocki’s decision to revoke Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s White Eagle Order due to the naming controversy. He refrained from taking sides, stating that criticizing or supporting either party in such matters serves no purpose, especially given the emotional responses involved.
Czarzasty remarked, “In Poland, there is no sense in criticizing or supporting anyone on these issues, as it stirs emotions. Regardless of the merits, it leads nowhere.” He also declined to evaluate the president’s decision, indicating a desire to avoid further division among Polish citizens.
He described Ukraine’s naming decision as “scandalous” and “wrong,” yet questioned whether the two nations could move past this conflict. Czarzasty stated, “I will make prudent decisions and take sensible steps. Someone must step back from the foolishness that occurred on Ukraine’s part.”
He underscored that Poland’s strength is intertwined with Ukraine’s independence, stating, “Poland will be independent and strong when Ukraine is independent and strong.” He urged for a long-term perspective on future relations, asking whether it would be better to engage in dialogue or to sever ties.
Despite his criticisms, Czarzasty warned that escalating negotiations would play into Russia’s hands. He reiterated, “Poland cannot be secure without Ukraine. I will say this again: Ukraine cannot join the European Union without Poland. Perhaps we should finally set conditions.”
In response to the controversy, Ukrainian officials, including Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and Ambassador to Poland Vasyl Bodnar, announced they would return their Polish honors. On June 20, Zelensky confirmed he had mailed back the White Eagle Order to President Nawrocki. Notably, all previous Ukrainian presidents who received this honor have since declined it.
Polish Sejm Speaker Włodzimierz Czarzasty criticized Ukraine's decision to name a military unit after the UPA, calling it a mistake. He emphasized the need for dialogue between Poland and Ukraine to avoid escalating tensions that could benefit Russia.
Source: Polsat News