Poland and Ukraine have become embroiled in a diplomatic dispute over a Second World War-era army unit, with Warsaw demanding that Kyiv dissolve the formation due to its alleged historical ties to atrocities against Poles. The controversy centers on the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), which fought for Ukrainian independence during the war and is accused by Poland of participating in the massacre of Polish civilians in Volhynia and Eastern Galicia in 1943-1944.
What Happened
According to the Guardian, the Polish government has formally requested that Ukraine disband any military units that derive their traditions from the UPA. This follows Ukraine's establishment of a new army brigade named after the UPA, which Poland views as a provocation. The UPA is considered a nationalist organization by Poland, while Ukraine regards it as a symbol of resistance against Soviet and Nazi oppression.
Details of the Dispute
The dispute escalated when Ukraine renamed a territorial defense unit after the UPA in 2024, prompting Poland to summon the Ukrainian ambassador. Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Marcin Przydacz stated that such actions are “unacceptable” and harm bilateral relations. Poland has also threatened to block Ukraine's EU accession negotiations if the issue is not resolved. The Ukrainian government has defended the move, arguing that the UPA's legacy is complex and that the unit symbolizes the fight for independence.
Impact on Relations
The disagreement threatens to strain the otherwise strong alliance between the two countries, which has been bolstered by their shared opposition to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Poland has been a key supporter of Ukraine, providing military aid and hosting millions of refugees. However, historical grievances continue to surface, complicating the relationship. According to a recent poll, 45% of Poles view Ukraine unfavorably due to historical issues. The dispute also risks undermining Ukraine's efforts to integrate with Western institutions, as Poland holds significant influence in the EU.
