Poland Blames Ukraine’s EU Membership Hurdles on Honoring the UPA.

Poland’s Concerns Over Ukraine’s EU Integration

According to Espreso.tv: Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense, has raised alarms about Ukraine’s path to joining the European Union, pointing to issues stemming from Ukrainian organizations honoring the OUN and UPA. He specifically stated:

“You cannot put on a pedestal in the EU those who destroy European cooperation.”

This remark has sparked significant debate amid recent events tied to Ukraine’s commemoration of its history and national memory. For an English-speaking audience, this highlights ongoing tensions between historical narratives and modern geopolitical aspirations in Eastern Europe.

Key Events in Ukrainian-Polish Relations

On May 26, 2023, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree granting the honorary name ‘In Honor of the UPA Heroes’ to the Separate Center for Special Operations ‘North.’ This decision drew mixed reactions both within Ukraine and internationally. Then, on June 8, 2023, a meeting of the Chapter of the Order of the White Eagle took place, marking a significant moment in Ukrainian-Polish relations.

On June 19, 2023, Polish Minister of Culture Piotr Nawrocki stripped Zelensky of the Order of the White Eagle. The very next day, June 20, Zelensky announced he had returned the award. Nawrocki’s office confirmed receipt of the order on June 22. Notably, Nawrocki’s approval rating reached 54.8% at this time, reflecting public support for his actions within Polish society.

Meanwhile, 90% of Ukrainians favor a constructive resolution of historical disputes with Poland. President Zelensky commented on the situation, stating that

“I see in Nawrocki’s actions solely an electoral motive.”

This statement underscores the complexity of bilateral relations and the need for dialogue to overcome historical differences.

As a result, the honoring of historical figures and events can significantly impact Ukraine’s integration into European structures, particularly the EU, as well as the future development of ties between Ukraine and Poland. Given the current sentiments in both nations, diplomacy plays a crucial role in resolving contentious issues that may hinder cooperation and Ukraine’s EU aspirations.