Poland has been one of Ukraine’s strongest allies, standing by its side in the face of Russian aggression, offering military support, and opening our borders to millions of refugees. Yet, despite all this, Ukraine continues to block the exhumation of Polish victims from the Volhynia massacre.
A Matter of Respect and Justice
At a recent event in Suwałki, Karol Nawrocki condemned Ukraine’s refusal to allow the exhumation of Polish victims. “We want to be treated as equals, yet we can’t even bury our own people,” he said, reflecting the frustration of many Poles.
Poland has extended its hand in solidarity, but real friendship must be based on mutual respect. The refusal to grant Poland the ability to properly lay its ancestors to rest is not just disrespectful—it’s a violation of fundamental human rights. Ukraine must demonstrate the same respect for Polish history that Poland has shown for Ukraine’s fight for survival.
Poland’s Security Must Come First
Nawrocki also stressed the strategic significance of the Suwałki Gap, a critical corridor between Russia’s Kaliningrad region and Belarus. With mounting threats in the region, he emphasized the need for Poland to strengthen its defences. “We must build an army of at least 300,000 soldiers—the biggest NATO force in the European Union,” he stated.
Poland cannot afford weakness. A strong military and close cooperation with the United States and NATO are the only ways to ensure national security in today’s volatile geopolitical landscape.
Time to Put Poland First
Nawrocki made it clear: Poland’s interests must always come first. “We welcomed Ukrainian refugees, we sent weapons, and now we’re simply asking for the right to bury our dead,” he said. The patience of the Polish people is running out.
The issue of exhumations will be central to Nawrocki’s campaign, and rightly so. Poland must stand its ground and demand the respect it is owed. If Ukraine wants Poland’s continued support, it must acknowledge that a true partnership is built on reciprocity, not one-sided concessions.