Zelenskyy Opens Volhynia Massacre Archives: A Political Gesture Towards Poland, Says Expert

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced the opening of archives concerning the Volhynia massacre and granted permission for further searches and exhumations of Polish victims. Political scientist and historian Antoni Dudek described the decision as primarily a political gesture toward Poland, expressing some surprise at the timing.

"As a historian, I am glad that archives are being opened, as it is always of great value to researchers. At the same time, I think it is an attempt to make a gesture towards us," Dudek stated in an interview with "Fakt." He cautioned that the true value of the documents would only be revealed after their analysis, noting that historians have previously accessed Ukrainian documents related to the NKVD's activities during that period.

Dudek suggested that the political significance of Zelenskyy's announcement might outweigh its research value. He also pointed to potential controversies, mentioning that some conspiracy theories have already suggested Soviet services, rather than the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), were responsible for the genocide in Volhynia. "We will see what is in these documents. Perhaps there will be an attempt to convince us that the UPA was not actually behind the genocide in Volhynia, but rather the Soviet services, because such conspiracy theories have already appeared," he noted.

Amidst weeks of strained relations between Poland and Ukraine, Dudek believes Zelenskyy's decision is an attempt to mend ties. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk reacted to the announcement with "satisfaction and hope," stating that Poland is ready for "serious and friendly dialogue" based on mutual respect and truth. Zelenskyy made his announcement after a meeting focused on Ukraine's policy toward Poland, pledging to open all Security Service of Ukraine and Foreign Intelligence Service archives related to the Volhynia events, issue permits for search and excavation work, and foster dialogue between the two societies.

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