Zelenskyy says Ukraine will open archives of Security Service and intelligence on Volyn tragedy events

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced that preparations are underway for new steps in relations with Poland, particularly on historical issues, the opening of archives and search-and-exhumation work in Volyn.

Source: Zelenskyy on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda

Details: Zelenskyy held a meeting on Ukraine's policy towards Poland on Friday 17 July.

"The priorities are clear: all of us in Europe need good-neighbourly, equal and mutually beneficial relations built on respect," he said.

Zelenskyy reported that participants of the meeting have agreed on several key steps.

First, there will be diplomatic solutions. Second, all archives of the Security Service of Ukraine and the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine relating to the tragic events in Volyn in the 20th century will be opened. Third, decisions will be taken to issue a significant number of additional permits for search and exhumation work.

The participants also discussed ways to expand dialogue between Ukrainian and Polish societies. In addition, Zelenskyy said he has agreed with Oleksandr Alfiorov, Head of the Ukrainian Institute of National Remembrance, to expand the institute's capacity.

Quote: "Oleksandr will prepare and present comprehensive proposals, and I ask the relevant government officials and the competent committee of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine [parliament – ed.] to consider increasing financial and other support for the Ukrainian Institute of National Remembrance. Appropriate capabilities are essential to properly represent Ukraine's interests."

Background:

• On the same day, Ukraine's Foreign Ministry said it has taken note of the Polish Sejm's adoption of another resolution marking the anniversary of the tragic events in Volyn in 1943-1944.
• In his speech in Volyn marking the day of remembrance for victims of the Volyn tragedy, Polish Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz spoke about the importance of reconciliation and the unacceptability of a "spiral of hatred".

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