The European Parliament has criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for renaming an elite military unit after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) from the second World War era, leading to tensions between Warsaw and Kyiv. The amendment, supported by most members, expressed disappointment over Zelensky’s actions and emphasized Poland’s backing of Ukraine against Russian military activities, as per Euro News.
Andrzej Halicki, a Polish member of the European Parliament, along with his German counterpart Michael Gahler, introduced the amendment, which also included an evaluation of Ukraine’s journey towards EU membership. The UPA, known for resisting Soviet dominance and advocating for Ukrainian sovereignty, has different connotations in Ukraine and Poland, with the latter associating it with the Volyn massacre during Nazi occupation.
The European Parliament’s statement regretted the insensitivity towards Polish sentiments and the victims of the UPA in Zelensky’s decision, urging for a reduction in tensions and reconciliation between Ukraine and Poland. Despite the backlash, the resolution reiterated the EU’s support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia and acknowledged Ukraine’s strides towards EU integration.
Following the controversy, Polish President Karol Nawrocki revoked Zelensky’s Order of the White Eagle, Poland’s highest state honor bestowed upon him in 2023. The EU countries have stood by Ukraine, extending military, financial, and humanitarian aid since the 2022 conflict with Russia, while imposing sanctions on Russia’s political elite, military supply chains, energy sectors, and financial systems.
