Poland has escalated a diplomatic dispute with Ukraine over a Second World War-era Ukrainian nationalist army unit, demanding that Kyiv officially renounce the group's legacy. The controversy threatens to strain relations between the two close allies as Ukraine continues to defend itself against Russia's full-scale invasion.
What Sparked the Dispute?
The row centres on the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), a nationalist paramilitary force that fought for Ukrainian independence during and after WWII. The UPA has been accused by Poland of committing ethnic cleansing against Poles in Volhynia and Eastern Galicia between 1943 and 1945, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths. Poland's government insists that Ukraine must formally condemn the UPA and its actions as a prerequisite for deeper cooperation, including Ukraine's EU integration aspirations.
According to Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Andrzej Szejna, “Ukraine cannot build its future on the glorification of those who committed crimes against Poles. This is a matter of historical truth and justice.”
Ukraine's Response
Ukrainian officials have pushed back, arguing that the UPA is a complex historical symbol that also represents the fight for Ukrainian statehood against Soviet and Nazi oppression. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has acknowledged the need for reconciliation but has resisted outright condemnation, fearing domestic backlash from nationalist circles. “We respect the memory of all victims, but we cannot allow historical issues to be used as a tool to weaken our unity against the common enemy—Russia,” a Ukrainian presidential advisor stated.
Impact on Bilateral Relations
The dispute has already affected practical cooperation. Poland, a key hub for Western military aid to Ukraine, has hinted that unresolved historical grievances could complicate future support. Warsaw recently blocked a Ukrainian grain export deal, citing domestic agricultural concerns, which some analysts view as partly linked to the historical row. The tension also risks undermining Ukraine's push for EU membership, as Poland is a vocal advocate within the bloc.
According to a survey by the Polish Institute of International Affairs, 62% of Poles believe Ukraine should formally apologize for UPA actions before further integration. Meanwhile, 48% of Ukrainians view the UPA positively, according to the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology.
Historical Context
The UPA was the military wing of the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN), led by Stepan Bandera. During WWII, it fought both Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union, but also carried out massacres of Polish civilians. Poland estimates that up to 100,000 Poles were killed by the UPA in Volhynia and Galicia. Ukraine has acknowledged the massacres but often frames them within the broader context of wartime atrocities committed by all sides.
Broader Implications
The dispute comes at a critical time for Ukraine, which relies on Polish logistical support for military supplies and humanitarian aid. Any deterioration in relations could hamper the war effort. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, with both sides seeking a compromise that allows historical reconciliation without undermining their strategic partnership.
Polish President Andrzej Duda has called for “honest dialogue” and suggested that a joint historical commission could help resolve the issue. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has expressed willingness to discuss the matter but insists that “the priority remains defeating Russian aggression.”
As the war grinds on, the ability of both nations to navigate this sensitive historical issue will test the strength of their alliance.
