Polish Leader Calls for Clear Actions from Ukraine Over Volhynia Massacre
In a recent discussion on Radio Wnet, Paweł Kukiz expressed a strong, morally charged expectation that Ukraine must grant permission for the exhumation of Polish victims. He framed the issue as both political and profoundly human, stressing that those who died innocent deserve a proper burial and a lasting memory. For him, the moment tested whether Ukraine could be considered a civilized partner, capable of handling historical wounds with accountability and humanity.
The leader of Kukiz’15 conveyed his disappointment with Ukraine’s apparent stance on the Volhynia genocide, underscoring the importance of acknowledging crimes and honoring the memories of victims. He highlighted that many Poles remain silent as they light candles, a silence he rejects in favor of transparent remembrance and public acknowledgment of the past. He argued that forgiveness should follow confession and a collective effort to ensure that killers do not become heroes, a trajectory he cannot endorse.
“This is just this one, only moment, then there won’t be a moment”
According to Kukiz, Poland should press Ukraine to take concrete steps and demonstrate real action regarding the Volhynia massacre. He warned that if the moment passes without decisive gesture or accountability, future demands could become more onerous and strained, altering the tone of Polish-Ukrainian relations. In his view, the risk is that without timely action, a resurgence of arrogance could accompany any future reconciliation pressures.
He also suggested what Poland could pursue if Kyiv responded with inaction. He emphasized that diplomacy is not about friendliness alone and stressed that Polish policy might shift away from sympathy for aspirations toward NATO and the European Union if required by circumstances. The focus, in his words, would be on practical responses aligned with national memory and justice.
In reflecting on the broader implications, Kukiz pointed to the necessity of balancing empathy with steadfastness in safeguarding Polish historical memory and national interests. He framed the issue as urgent and consequential, not just a historical debate but a test of how a neighbor handles a dark chapter that still shapes regional dynamics today.
He concluded with a candid assessment of potential political moves, underscoring that the response should be grounded in a clear stance on accountability for the Volhynia events, without compromising Poland’s own security and values.
tkwl/wnet.fm
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Note: This article is based on reported remarks and public discourse surrounding the Volhynia genocide in Poland.