The article from 'Rzeczpospolita' explores the strategies employed by Russian propaganda to fragment the alliance between Poland and Ukraine, crucial for military and humanitarian support for Kyiv amidst the full-scale war. It highlights how the narratives utilized, such as those surrounding Volhynia and historical atrocities attributed to Ukrainian nationalists, serve to evoke emotional responses and reopen old wounds, which is strategically beneficial for Russia.

Thomas Urban, who is interviewed in the article, acknowledges the legitimate pain felt by the Polish side due to historical injustices but warns that insisting on resolving these issues before offering support may hinder political dialogues, particularly from a German perspective. The article emphasizes the delicate balance needed in addressing painful historical topics while navigating current geopolitical dynamics and the urgency of aiding Ukraine.

Furthermore, the piece touches upon Russian claims that Poland harbors ambitions of redrawing borders to reclaim lands lost after World War II. Urban dismisses these notions as unfounded, stating that no significant political party in Poland advocates for such revisions. He notes that despite this, ex-President Dmitry Medvedev continues to propagate these arguments, reflecting the ongoing tensions and the complex interplay of historical narratives in contemporary politics.