President Andrzej Duda on Poland-Ukraine Relations and the Volhynia Slaughter
Table of Contents
In a recent interview with Robert Mazurek on the Zero channel, President Andrzej Duda delved into the complex relationship between Poland and Ukraine, particularly focusing on the ancient context of the Volhynia slaughter.This interview comes at a critical juncture in Polish-Ukrainian relations, especially considering the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Duda’s Meeting with Zelensky
President Duda recalled a significant meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Wisła, which took place before the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine. During this meeting, Zelensky brought up the Volhynia slaughter, a dark chapter in the history of both nations.
“Wołodymyr Zelensky asked me since I know about the Volhynia slaughter.I replied that in communist Poland it was not officially talked about at school. I knew this topic from underground materials, which my father brought home, from books from the second circulation, from the West and America,” Duda explained.
Zelensky admitted that he only learned about the Volhynia slaughter after becoming the president of Ukraine. Duda emphasized the reluctance of many to acknowledge the role of their ancestors in the atrocities committed during that period.
“I agreed with Volodymyr Zelensky that we would take steps to make this topic cease to be a reason for anger,in memory of memory. (…) I was grateful to Volodymyr Zelensky that he came to Łuck with me to celebrate the victims of the Volhynia slaughter,” Duda said.
Historical Duty
Duda underscored his commitment to Poland’s interests,stating that his primary concern was preventing Russia from taking Ukraine. He emphasized that Poland was one of the first countries to support Ukraine, and he refused to put Ukraine in a position of submission.
“I am a man who is guided by the heart,reason and interest of Poland. In my opinion, the interest of poland was that Russia would not take Ukraine. (…) At first, no one but us helped ukraine. I was supposed to throw Ukraine on my knees and put them an ultimatum? I did not do it and I take historical responsibility for it,” Duda asserted.
The Volhynia Slaughter: A Genocide
The Volhynia slaughter was a genocide perpetrated by Ukrainian nationalists with the support of the local Ukrainian population against the Polish minority in the former Volyn Voivodship of the Second Polish Republic during the German occupation. The atrocities reached their peak in the summer of 1943, with historians estimating that between 50,000 to 120,000 Poles were killed.
Similar genocidal acts were carried out by the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) in neighboring regions such as Lviv, Tarnopol, and Stanisławów, areas known as Eastern Galicia or Eastern Lesser Poland.
Public Opinion and Historical Reconciliation
A recent poll indicates that half of the Polish population does not support Ukraine’s entry into the European Union without addressing the historical injustices of the Volhynia slaughter. This underscores the deep-seated emotions and the need for historical reconciliation between the two nations.
Conclusion
president Andrzej Duda’s interview highlights the intricate balance between historical responsibility and contemporary geopolitical interests. As Poland continues to support Ukraine, the need for mutual recognition and reconciliation of historical wrongs remains a critical factor in shaping the future of Polish-Ukrainian relations.
Key Points Summary
| Aspect | Details |
|—————————–|————————————————————————-|
| Meeting with Zelensky | Discussed the Volhynia slaughter; Zelensky learned about it post-presidency |
| Duda’s Stance | Guided by heart, reason, and Poland’s interest; supported Ukraine |
| Volhynia Slaughter | Genocide by Ukrainian nationalists; 50-120k Poles killed |
| Public Opinion | Half of Poles oppose Ukraine’s EU entry without addressing Volhynia |
For more insights on the Polish outlook on Ukraine’s EU entry, read here.
Germany to Finance Joint History Textbook for Poles and Ukrainians
In a significant move aimed at fostering historical understanding and unity, Germany has announced its intention to finance a joint history textbook for poles and Ukrainians.This initiative, which has been welcomed by both nations, seeks to provide a thorough and balanced narrative of their shared history.
The textbook, which is still in the planning stages, is expected to cover a wide range of historical events that have shaped the relationship between Poland and Ukraine. this includes periods of cooperation, conflict, and mutual influence. The project is seen as a crucial step in promoting reconciliation and strengthening the ties between the two nations.
Key Points of the Initiative
| Aspect | Details |
|—————————–|————————————————————————-|
| Funding | Germany will provide financial support for the development of the textbook. |
| Target Audience | The textbook is primarily aimed at students in both Poland and Ukraine.|
| Historical Scope | It will cover significant historical events and periods. |
| Balanced Perspective | The narrative will strive to be balanced and inclusive of both perspectives. |
Historical Context
The relationship between Poland and Ukraine has been complex and multifaceted. Both nations have a rich history that includes periods of cultural exchange, political alliances, and conflicts. The proposed textbook aims to provide a nuanced understanding of these dynamics, helping students to appreciate the depth and complexity of their shared past.
Educational Impact
The joint history textbook is expected to have a profound impact on education in both countries. By offering a shared narrative, it can definitely help to reduce historical misunderstandings and promote a more cohesive view of the past. This, in turn, can foster greater mutual respect and cooperation in the future.
Political Importance
The initiative is also seen as a political gesture of goodwill from germany. By supporting this project, Germany aims to strengthen its ties with both poland and Ukraine, particularly in the context of current geopolitical challenges. This move underscores Germany’s commitment to regional stability and cooperation.
Futures
The development of the textbook is still in its early stages. Experts from both countries will be involved in its creation to ensure accuracy and balance. Once completed,the textbook will be integrated into the school curricula of both Poland and Ukraine,reaching thousands of students each year.
Conclusion
The decision by Germany to finance a joint history textbook for Poles and Ukrainians is a significant step forward in promoting historical understanding and unity. By providing a balanced and comprehensive narrative of their shared past, this initiative aims to foster greater mutual respect and cooperation between the two nations. As the project progresses, it will be closely watched by educators, historians, and policymakers alike.
For more facts on this developing story, stay tuned to our latest updates.
Note: This article is based on information from the provided source and does not include any additional commentary or text.
Interview with the President of Poland: Addressing Historical Tragedies and future Cooperation
The Dark Past of Volhynia Slaughter
Photograph of the interview.
President Andrzej Duda recently discussed his conversations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr zelensky on a especially delicate topic – the Volhynia slaughter.This dark chapter in the history of both nations has been a source of tension but also a call for cooperation.
President Zelensky asked me since I know about the Volhynia slaughter. I replied that in communist Poland it was not officially talked about at school. I knew this topic from underground materials,which my father brought home,from books from the second circulation,from the West and America,” duda explained.
Zelensky admitted that he only learned about the Volhynia slaughter after becoming the president of Ukraine. Duda emphasized the reluctance of many to acknowledge the role of their ancestors in the atrocities committed during that period.
“I agreed with Volodymyr Zelensky that we would take steps to make this topic cease to be a reason for anger, in memory of memory. (…) I was grateful to Volodymyr Zelensky that he came to lviv with me to celebrate the victims of the Volhynia slaughter,” Duda said.
Historical Duty
Duda underscored his commitment to Poland’s interests, stating that his primary concern was preventing Russia from taking Ukraine. He emphasized that Poland was one of the first countries to support Ukraine, and he refused to put Ukraine in a position of submission.
“I am a man who is guided by the heart, reason, and the interest of Poland. From my personal perspective,the interest of Poland was that Russia would not take Ukraine. (…) At first, no one but us helped Ukraine. I was supposed to throw Ukraine on their knees and put them an ultimatum? I did not do it and I took meaningful steps to promote historical understanding and unity. By providing a balanced and comprehensive narrative of their shared past, this initiative aims to foster greater mutual respect and cooperation between the two nations. As the project progresses, it will be closely watched by educators, historians, and policymakers alike.
For more facts on this developing story, stay tuned to our latest updates.”
## Concluding Summary
President Duda’s discussions with President Zelensky highlight the importance of addressing historical tragedies like the Volhynia slaughter. Through mutual respect and concerted efforts to tell a balanced and comprehensive historical narrative, both leaders are taking significant steps toward greater unity and cooperation between Poland and Ukraine. This initiative not only fosters understanding but also paves the way for a stronger bilateral relationship in the future.
