Poland and Ukraine argue over past massacres.
Poland is angry because Ukraine honored people involved in past violence. This has led to a fight between the two countries. Poland might block Ukraine from joining the European Union.
The disagreement began with the Volhynia massacres of World War II. Ukrainian nationalists killed many Polish people. Poland calls this a genocide. Ukraine does not agree with this label. President Nawrocki removed Ukraine’s president from a high honor. This is happening before Poland’s elections. The UPA’s legacy is important to both countries’ identities.
Summarized from the sources above. Read the originals for the full story.
Highlights
Poland objects to Zelenskyy's remarks
Poland is angry because President Zelenskyy compared partisan groups to those who committed massacres in the 1940s.
Volhynia massacres are central
The dispute began with a disagreement about the Volhynia massacres of World War II.
Poland sees genocide
Poland considers the Volhynia massacres a genocide.
Poland threatens EU membership
Polish officials threatened to block Ukraine’s EU membership.
UPA legacy fuels conflict
The UPA’s legacy is a key issue in the political dispute.
Perspectives
- Poland and Ukraine are arguing about events from the 1940s.
- The dispute involves the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA).
- Poland considers the UPA’s actions a genocide.
- The issue is affecting relations between Poland and Ukraine.
Poland considers the UPA’s actions a genocide and a crime against Polish civilians.
Der Standard, Notes from Poland
Ukraine honors some UPA members as heroes who resisted Russia.
DW English, Politico EU
Poland threatens to block Ukraine’s EU membership until the issue is resolved.
Notes from Poland
The dispute is a political issue, not a barrier to EU membership.
DW English, Politico EU