Polish Deputy PM: Zelenskyy facing consequences for 'bad decision' on UPA unit naming

Polish Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz stated that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is "reaping the consequences" of a past decision, referring to the naming of a military unit after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) heroes. This move has led to a dispute between Poland and Ukraine, resulting in Zelenskyy's absence from the Ukraine Reconstruction Conference in Gdańsk.

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If dialogue with Ukraine is possible, it is our obligation.

Kosiniak-Kamysz asserted that if dialogue with Ukraine is possible, it is Poland's obligation to pursue it. He stressed that Poland and Ukraine should stand together against their common enemies, rather than fostering animosity between the two nations. He warned that escalating tensions are "very dangerous."

The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the necessity of historical truth and the commemoration of victims of the Volhynia massacre. He mentioned the construction of a Museum of Memory of the Victims of the Volhynian Slaughter in Chełm and the Polish Sejm's adoption of a law establishing a National Day of Remembrance for the Victims of the Genocide committed by Ukrainian nationalists. Kosiniak-Kamysz noted that these actions are being taken by the Polish government.

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Poland and Ukraine against our enemies, not Ukraine hostile to Poland, or hostile emotions from Poland to Ukraine. This must be stopped, it is very dangerous.

He expressed that Poland had "honestly stated what hurts us in President Zelenskyy's decision" and that he should have attended the conference in Gdańsk. Despite the current difficulties, Kosiniak-Kamysz expressed belief in finding a common solution, stating, "I believe that after the night comes the day, and after the storm comes calm." He appealed to work towards not losing "hands for work in Poland, opportunities for economic development and building a safe space on the eastern flank of NATO."

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Historical truth, identity, commemoration of the victims of genocide in Volhynia are absolutely necessary.

Separately, Karol Nawrocki, head of the Institute of National Remembrance, announced on June 19 that he had decided to revoke the Order of the White Eagle, Poland's highest honor, from President Zelenskyy. This decision followed Zelenskyy's approval of naming a military unit after the UPA. Zelenskyy subsequently announced he had returned the award, stating that the Order of the White Eagle symbolizes the highest trust of the community of nations and requires respect for the values fundamental to the Polish community.

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I believe that after the night comes the day, and after the storm comes calm.