Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has opted not to participate in the Ukraine Recovery Conference held in Gdańsk, Poland, as tensions rise between Kyiv and Warsaw over historical issues. This conference is designed to rally international support and attract investment for Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction. In Zelenskyy’s stead, Ukraine’s Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko will lead the delegation attending the event.
The friction between Ukraine and Poland stems from Zelenskyy’s recent decision to name a Ukrainian military unit after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA). While in Ukraine, the UPA is often seen as part of the country’s independence movement, in Poland, it is associated with the deaths of thousands of Poles during the Second World War. This naming decision has drawn criticism from Polish leaders, including President Karol Nawrocki, who accused Ukraine of disregarding historical grievances.
Despite the controversy, Zelenskyy has defended his stance, asserting that military units should have the autonomy to choose names that reflect Ukrainian heritage. He emphasized that political disputes should not undermine the collaboration between Ukraine and Poland, especially given the prevailing security threats. The disagreement has somewhat strained the otherwise cooperative relationship the two nations have maintained since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
In light of the situation, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has called for both countries to deescalate the tensions, stressing that disagreements should not harm their strategic partnership. European officials also expressed concern, warning that any deterioration in Ukraine-Poland relations could potentially play into Russia’s hands. They urged both nations to maintain their cooperative efforts as neighboring allies.