Polish-Ukrainian solidarity over Russian threat undermined by bitter historical dispute
Summary
Poland and Ukraine helped each other at the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, especially with Poland supporting Ukrainian refugees. However, their relationship has worsened due to a fight about history involving a Ukrainian army accused of killing many Poles during World War II, which Poland calls genocide. This dispute has led Poland to threaten blocking Ukraine from joining the European Union.Key Facts
- Poland supported millions of Ukrainian refugees after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.
- A historical conflict involves the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), which killed about 100,000 Poles in 1943 in an area that was then part of Poland.
- Ukraine honors UPA members as heroes for fighting Soviet rule, while Poland condemns them for the killings.
- Polish President Karol Nawrocki removed a Polish state award from President Zelenskyy because of Ukraine honoring the UPA.
- In response, some Ukrainian officials returned their Polish awards, and Ukraine plans to continue honoring UPA members.
- The dispute has caused strong anger and harsh public statements from both countries.
- Poland has threatened to block Ukraine’s entry into the European Union over these historical disagreements.
- Both countries’ leaders have used this issue to appeal to domestic audiences, affecting their political positions.
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