Survey finds most Poles doubt Ukraine’s sincerity on Volhynia Massacre memorials; historical tensions delay reconciliation efforts.
A recent survey by United Surveys for Wirtualna Polska shows that 67.4% of Poles doubt the sincerity of Ukrainian promises regarding the exhumation and commemoration of Volhynia Massacre victims. While 27% expressed some trust, only 3.1% believed strongly in Ukrainian assurances. Even among government coalition voters, distrust prevails, with skepticism rising to 83% among opposition supporters.
Historical Dispute Between Poland and Ukraine
The Volhynia Massacre (1943–1945), involving the killing of around 100,000 Poles by the Ukrainian Insurgent Army, remains a contentious issue. Poland views it as genocide, while Ukraine frames it as a reciprocal conflict. Efforts to conduct exhumations in Ukraine have faced resistance, often linked to broader political tensions, such as the 2017 ban by the Ukrainian Institute of National Remembrance.
Future Prospects
Although some progress has been made, delays persist. Ukrainian officials, including IPNU head Anton Drobowycz, suggest exhumations may begin by 2025-2026, leaving Polish families waiting for closure.