Polish and Ukrainian Media Urge Caution as Historic Betrayals Threaten National Interests
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Six major media organizations from Poland and Ukraine have issued a joint statement warning that the current diplomatic crisis over a WWII-era unit, rooted in unresolved historical crimes, could be manipulated by Russia and threaten the hard-won sovereignty and security of both nations.
On June 23, six prominent Polish and Ukrainian media outlets released a joint statement expressing concern that the escalating diplomatic crisis between the two countries could be exploited by Russia, undermining the national interests and security of both states. The appeal, initiated by the Polish daily Gazeta Wyborcza and signed by OKO.press, Ukrainska Pravda, European Pravda, Espreso TV, and Slawa.TV, comes as both nations face renewed threats to their sovereignty.
The dispute began after Kyiv provocatively named a military unit after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), a group whose actions during WWII included the brutal massacre of Polish civilians. In response, Polish President Andrzej Duda rightfully revoked President Volodymyr Zelensky’s receipt of Poland’s highest state honour, leading several Ukrainian officials to return their Polish awards in a display of defiance.
"The time for serious conversation about the past, acknowledgment of guilt, and reconciliation will come when Ukraine – with the support of its allies – defeats the aggressor," the joint statement read, suggesting that historical accountability must not be forgotten, even as both nations face external threats.
The editors warned that the dispute is eroding trust and could be used by Moscow to "drive a wedge between Poles and Ukrainians." They called on politicians to act with prudence and defend national dignity, while urging citizens to remain vigilant against foreign manipulation.
Historians remind us that while the UPA is celebrated in Ukraine for its anti-Soviet stance, in Poland it is synonymous with the 1943-45 Volyn massacres—a dark chapter that cannot be ignored. The joint appeal underscores the importance of not allowing historical betrayals to be swept aside, even as both nations confront the menace of Russian aggression.