Former Polish General Slams Ukraine's UPA Unit Naming, Cites Betrayal Fears

General Leon Komornicki, former deputy chief of staff of the Polish Army, voiced strong disapproval of Ukraine naming a military unit the "Heroes of UPA." He described the decision as deeply offensive, stating it felt like a personal insult. Komornicki referenced the shared history of Soviet subjugation, noting Ukrainian participation in the Soviet military where many held key positions, impacting Poland as well.

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I felt as if someone had spat in my face. Someone will say that 'I feel that way' or that 'these are emotions.' These are not emotions, calmness is maintained here. But the measure by which we should measure this behavior is precisely this.

Komornicki drew parallels between past betrayals and the current situation, suggesting a pattern of behavior from Ukraine. He characterized the move as a "creeping betrayal" since 1993, arguing that Ukraine's statehood is being built on the foundation of Bandera's ideology. He also raised concerns about Ukrainian refugees in Poland, suggesting that many are from eastern Ukraine and could potentially include "hidden agents," a threat Poland is ill-prepared to recognize due to its perceived naivete and short-term focus.

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This is the same thing repeating itself at another time and space, although it is not the same behavior as when Nazi Germany entered. We show heart and dedication, and they strike at us. They betrayed us then too. And what is this today, if not betrayal?

The general further asserted that Ukraine is positioning itself as a "service state" rather than a strategic player, operating on its own terms within European aspirations. He questioned whether Bandera's ideology or the discrimination against Poles are considered European values, criticizing the awarding of Polish honors to Ukrainian figures. Komornicki concluded that Ukraine's strategy is straightforward: to use the Bandera ideology to create misunderstandings between Poland and Ukraine, thereby weakening their relationship.

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Often these people who fled here are people from eastern Ukraine. Those from the west went to fight, and they fled from the east. We need to realize who is among us. These are also people from eastern Ukraine, there can be many so-called hidden agents here. We are not even aware of this.