Ukrainian diplomat hits back hard after Polish radicals smear 'Slava Ukraini'
The slogan for Ukrainians 'Slava Ukraini' (Illustrative photo: Getty Images)
Ukrainian Ambassador to Poland Vasyl Bodnar sharply responded to a statement by a deputy from the far-right Confederation party, who attempted to link the slogan 'Slava Ukraini' with Nazi ideology, according to a post by Bodnar on Facebook.
Vasyl Bodnar emphasized that such remarks were met in Ukraine with great surprise and concern, as “Slava Ukraini!” is an official national slogan symbolizing the struggle for independence, dignity, and the self-sacrifice of the Ukrainian people.
“This phrase is a symbol of Ukrainian heroism in the war for freedom - just like the slogan ‘Niech żyje Polska!’ is for the Polish people,” the ambassador noted.
He also emphasized that speculations surrounding this slogan and attempts to associate it with Nazism are not only historically unfounded but also dangerous, as they play into the hands of hostile forces interested in weakening the unity of the democratic world.
In conclusion, Bodnar called on Polish politicians to show mutual respect, restraint in their statements, and responsibility toward our shared history and present - both of which demand unity, not division.
The Ukrainian ambassador also responded to whether Poland remains a reliable ally of Kyiv.
In addition, the ambassador explained why Poles have started to view Ukrainians more negatively.
