Poland-Ukraine UPA crisis escalates: Tusk demands Kiev solve historical dispute

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has called on Ukraine to seriously address historical disputes concerning the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), warning that relations could shift from empathy to purely business-like if Kiev fails to heed Warsaw's message.

Tusk acknowledged that interpretations of historical events can differ but stressed the importance of mutual respect for sensitivities. He expressed understanding of Ukraine's desire to honor those who fought against Soviet rule but stated Poland cannot accept the glorification of individuals responsible for killing Poles. "They caused this problem, let them solve it," Tusk declared.

The Prime Minister highlighted an upcoming conference in Gdansk on Ukraine's post-war reconstruction, noting its significance for Kiev. He suggested that if Poland's message does not reach Kiev, relations will be managed through a pragmatic business logic rather than empathy.

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This problem was caused by them, let them solve it.

This diplomatic tension follows Ukraine's decision to grant honorary titles to military units including UPA heroes, which has drawn strong criticism in Poland. Warsaw holds the UPA responsible for the deaths of tens of thousands of Poles during World War II. Polish President Andrzej Duda has supported revoking state honors given to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz urged Ukraine to reconsider its decision, citing the profound pain and concern it has caused in Poland.

Delegations from Poland and Ukraine met in Warsaw to discuss the contentious issue, with the Ukrainian side led by presidential advisor Kyrylo Budanov.

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If our message does not reach Kiev, our relations will be managed not with empathy but with the logic of tough business relations.