Andrzej Szeptycki apologizes for comparing the UPA to the "Cursed Soldiers"
Andrzej Szeptycki, Deputy Minister of Science, has apologized for his recent statement regarding the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA). In a radio interview, the politician compared the organization to the Polish "Cursed Soldiers." These words caused a significant stir in the media and among other politicians.
The entire situation began with a conversation on TOK FM radio. Journalist Jacek Żakowski asked the deputy minister why Ukrainians respect the UPA despite its difficult history. Szeptycki replied that for Ukrainians, UPA members are figures similar to the Polish Cursed Soldiers, as both groups fought for their country's freedom against the Soviet Union.
Shortly after this interview, the deputy minister appeared on Polsat News television to clarify his position. He admitted that a very important element was missing from his previous statement. Szeptycki clearly stated that he unequivocally condemns the crimes committed by the UPA against the Polish civilian population. He also apologized to all those who might have felt offended by his words.
The topic of the UPA is extremely sensitive in Poland due to tragic historical events, such as the Volhynia massacre. Meanwhile, the Cursed Soldiers were the Polish pro-independence underground that fought against the communist system after World War II. Comparing these two groups is painful and controversial for many Poles.
Deputy Minister Szeptycki emphasized that, as a politician and a scholar, he understands the weight of his words. His apology is intended to clarify the misunderstanding and calm emotions. This matter shows how difficult and complicated the shared history of Poland and Ukraine remains, even in the face of today's cooperation between the two countries.