Zelenskyy Hits Back at Poland Over UPA Naming, Voices Displeasure with Nawrocki’s Rhetoric.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Remarks

According to Novyny.live: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the decision to name a military unit after the Heroes of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), explaining that the choice came directly from the soldiers themselves. He also expressed frustration over what he described as anti-Ukrainian rhetoric from Polish President Karol Nawrocki, which has intensified ahead of Poland’s 2027 parliamentary elections.

Zelenskyy signed a decree officially bestowing the UPA Heroes name on the military unit, emphasizing that the troops independently selected the designation. During the full-scale war, he has signed hundreds of similar decrees. At the same time, he urged Poland’s president to make time for a visit to Ukraine, calling such a gesture ‘a sign of respect for our nation.’

Ukraine-Poland Relations

Zelenskyy also recalled that on June 20, 2026, he returned the Order of the White Eagle to Nawrocki, highlighting the growing friction between the two countries. According to Zelenskyy, the Polish president has not visited Ukraine once during his year in office, raising further questions about his policies.

“We are protecting Poland, we are protecting Europe right now—not the other way around,” Zelenskyy stressed.

The Ukrainian president further stated,

“You will not resolve this issue,”

These comments underscore the strained ties between Ukraine and Poland, fueled by the Polish leadership’s rhetoric. Amid the difficult situation, Zelenskyy continues to stress the importance of constructive dialogue to overcome current disagreements. The honoring of UPA heroes may reflect an effort to boost national consciousness in Ukraine, while relations with neighboring countries remain a critical factor for regional stability.