Lublin Removes Ukrainian Flag After Zelenskyy Decree Honoring UPA-Linked Unit.

Ukrainian Flag Removed in Lublin

According to Novyny.live: On May 30, authorities in Lublin took down the Ukrainian flag that had been flying alongside the European Union and Polish banners since 2022. The move was a direct response to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s decree granting the honorary name 'Heroes of the UPA' to the Special Operations Center 'North.'

The decision sparked strong backlash from Lublin city officials. They stated that

'glorifying formations responsible for crimes against civilians harms the historical memory of our people, insults the memory of Polish victims, and complicates efforts to build a sincere dialogue between our countries.'

Historical Background

The flag removal also ties into broader historical tensions. In June 2025, the Polish Sejm passed a resolution designating July 11 as the Day of Remembrance for victims of genocide committed by the OUN and UPA. This context helps explain why the symbolic gesture of lowering Ukraine’s flag carries such weight, as it reflects deep divisions over how past events are remembered and interpreted.

This incident underscores the fraught history between Ukraine and Poland, a relationship often marked by conflicting narratives about shared history. The flag removal highlights how sensitive issues of historical memory remain for both nations, and how modern political decisions can strain diplomatic ties. At a time when Ukraine relies heavily on international support amid its ongoing war, such actions risk widening existing rifts and making reconciliation even harder to achieve.