An analysis of the state of Polish-Ukrainian relations
Despite the recent warming of relations and numerous economic and civic initiatives, Polish-Ukrainian relations have once again been threatened by historical tensions, this time triggered by Volodymyr Zelenskyy naming one of his military units after the Heroes of the UPA. Edwin Bendyk, president of the Batory Foundation, explains this decision in terms of the domestic context and the profound process of decolonisation of Ukrainian identity, for whom the symbolism of the UPA today signifies above all an uncompromising struggle against the Russian aggressor, rather than the Volhynia conflict. Despite the war that has been raging for many years, corruption and internal social burdens, Ukrainian society demonstrates tremendous resilience, economic stability and unity around defence objectives. In conclusion, the author points out that the future of both nations depends on building a symmetrical partnership and Ukraine’s integration with the European Union, which will enable it to become a key pillar of the new security system in Europe.
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