Zelensky's honour for WWII-era nationalist unit fuels tension with Poland

France 24 reports that Zelensky formally honoured a Ukrainian military brigade by naming it after a militia commander linked to the World War II-era Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA). The Polish side called the decision 'irresponsible', pointing to the UPA's role in the 1943-44 Volhynia massacres. The European Jewish Congress and the Chief Rabbi of Poland expressed 'deep concern' in their statements.

The Polish Foreign Minister summoned the Ukrainian ambassador, while the Prime Minister's office announced it would reassess joint work by the historical truth commissions. A European Commission spokesperson said historical sensitivities between member states should be addressed through diplomacy, while the German Foreign Ministry called on the parties 'not to let this debate weaken wartime allied cooperation'.

The Ukrainian presidency said the decision was meant to honour 'the memory of Ukraine's independence struggle' and that not all UPA actions were endorsed. Analysts note that on the 100th day of the war Polish political and military backing remains critical for Kyiv and call for rapid diplomatic repair. The issue is expected to feature on the agenda of EU accession talks as well.