Historic Dispute Over UPA Could Damage Ukraine-Poland Ties, Warns Journalist.

Ukraine and Poland at Odds Over UPA Naming

According to Espreso.tv: Journalist Vitaliy Portnikov has raised alarms about the potential fallout from a historical disagreement between Ukraine and Poland, urging both sides to avoid conflicts that could harm their future relationship. The controversy erupted after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree on May 26, 2023, granting the honorary title 'named after the UPA heroes' to the Separate Center for Special Operations 'North.' This move immediately drew sharp criticism from Polish officials.

On May 29, 2023, Polish President Karol Nawrocki announced plans to strip Zelensky of Poland’s highest state honor in response. The following week, on June 2, Krzysztof Bosak, Deputy Speaker of the Polish Sejm, called for blocking Ukraine’s accession to the European Union. Polish political leaders weighed in heavily during this period. By June 5, Donald Tusk declared that the responsibility for resolving the dispute between Kyiv and Warsaw rested solely with the Ukrainian side.

A Call for Dialogue

A key development came on June 8, 2023, when the Chapter of the Order of the White Eagle convened to deliberate the potential revocation of Zelensky’s award. That same day, Tusk urged the presidents of both Ukraine and Poland to engage in 'direct and honest' dialogue. Vitaliy Portnikov emphasized:

“I do not want historical disputes to call into question the relationship between Ukraine and Poland.” - Vitaliy Portnikov

Against this backdrop, Włodzimierz Czarzasty highlighted the importance of maintaining strong bilateral ties, stating: 'It is in Poland’s interest to maintain good relations with Ukraine.' These remarks underscore the need for constructive dialogue and cooperation, as Donald Tusk pointed out:

“If we quarrel over the past, someone else will win the future.” - Donald Tusk

The situation demands careful handling from both nations to prevent further escalation and preserve their strategic partnership. This dispute serves as a critical test for Ukraine-Poland relations, which are vital to regional stability and security. Given their shared interests in countering external threats, it is essential that political leaders find pathways to constructive dialogue, ensuring neighborly ties remain strong and supporting common goals in international cooperation.