European Parliament Urges Reconciliation Between Ukraine and Poland Over UPA Dispute.

Call for Historical Reconciliation

According to UATV: During a plenary session held on July 8, 2023, members of the European Parliament called on Ukraine and Poland to intensify their efforts toward historical reconciliation and maintain good neighborly relations. Expressing concern, the parliamentarians noted that naming a unit of the Ukrainian Armed Forces after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) could negatively impact bilateral ties between the two countries.

Developments in Ukraine and Poland

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has endorsed the glorification of the UPA as part of his policy, signing a decree in late May 2026 to award the Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine a distinction named after the Heroes of the UPA. This move, however, drew sharp criticism from Poland. The Polish president stated that

“glorifying the UPA strikes at historical memory and the foundations of reconciliation”

The historical memory conflict between Ukraine and Poland is partly rooted in the Volhynia massacre, which occurred between 1943 and 1945. This tragic past, along with recent events, underscores the need for dialogue and compromise. On June 19, 2023, Ukrainian politician Navrotsky announced the return of the Order of the White Eagle; the following day, on June 20, the Ukrainian president sent the award to Warsaw. Meanwhile, three former Ukrainian presidents declined the Polish Order of the White Eagle, further highlighting the sensitivity of the issue.

The European Parliament is urging constructive dialogue to prevent further deterioration of relations between Ukraine and Poland, stressing the importance of joint efforts in achieving historical reconciliation and preserving good neighborly ties.

This call underscores the significance of cooperation between Ukraine and Poland on matters of historical memory, a topic that remains deeply sensitive for both nations. Despite the challenges, the willingness of both countries to engage in dialogue could prove crucial for strengthening their future relationship and reducing tensions that may affect regional stability.