Polish Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz stated that Ukraine’s path to EU membership is dependent on resolving the historical issue of the Volyn massacre. This tragic event in 1943, where Ukrainian Insurgent Army members killed many Poles in Volyn, remains a point of contention between Poland and Ukraine.
Despite efforts at reconciliation, including Poland’s support of Ukraine against Russian aggression, unresolved historical grievances continue to strain relations. The importance of addressing the Volyn massacre was emphasized by former Polish Foreign Ministry Undersecretary Pawel Jablonski.
Additionally, recent developments such as Poland preparing the first Ukrainian Legion and the controversial unveiling of a memorial to the massacre victims highlight the ongoing sensitivity of this issue. The need to resolve these historical disputes will play a crucial role in shaping Polish-Ukrainian relations and Ukraine’s EU aspirations.