Did Zelensky Just Erase the UPA from History?

Source: Author’s Facebook page

It is both strange and regrettable that on October 14 — the day marking the anniversary of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army’s founding — not a single official statement was made by the authorities. The Supreme Commander-in-Chief of a nation still fighting for its survival did not even mention the UPA, the force that decades ago defended Ukraine from the Moscow horde.

And unfortunately, this is no coincidence. Even after the start of the full-scale invasion, on October 14, 2022, President Zelensky did not say a single word about those who once took up arms against the invaders from the east.

Perhaps this day is not listed among the official state holidays. Yet such dates are meaningful and symbolic in themselves — especially during a great war against Russian occupiers, the very struggle to which the legendary Ukrainian fighters dedicated their lives.

But should the memory of Ukrainian heroes really depend on official protocols, adopted resolutions, or political expediency? This kind of friendly indifference to a significant date in Ukrainian history sends a troubling signal to society as a whole.

This date needs no additional reminders. Everyone should remember it — those now defending the country on the battlefield, those strengthening our rear, and those sitting in government offices. All are united before the memory of the Heroes.

This is the day when we affirm our identity — as a nation, as citizens, as heirs of those who did not wait for permission to be free.

I am not inclined to criticize silence. Let it remain on the conscience of those who chose to ignore such a meaningful date.

It is good that today’s Ukraine still sees those in whom the spirit of the glorious warriors lives — those who have not forgotten what the struggle for freedom means.

Ukrainian selfhood begins precisely where we define its meaning ourselves, rather than expecting it from above.

Glory to the OUN-UPA. Glory to those who continue their cause today!

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