Zelensky's UPA naming fuels Ukraine-Poland diplomatic crisis

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky designated the Special Operations Center “North” as “Heroes of UPA,” honoring the World‑War‑II Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) that was responsible for the mass killing of tens of thousands of Poles, as well as Jews and Roma. The move triggered anger in Warsaw, where the UPA is deemed responsible for a genocide of Poles in Volhynia and Galicia. In response, Polish President Karol Nawrocki withdrew Zelensky’s White Eagle order, and a poll indicated that over half of Poles supported the revocation. Former Ukrainian presidents returned the Polish decorations they had received.

Amid the diplomatic flare‑up, Zelensky will not attend the Ukraine reconstruction conference in Gdańsk. Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko will lead the Ukrainian delegation, which will meet with businesses and financiers to mobilise support for rebuilding the war‑torn country. Despite the tension, Poland remains a key ally of Kyiv in the reconstruction effort.