Poland Criminalizes Spread of Ukrainian Nationalist Ideology: President Announces Stricter Measures

Polish President Karol Nawrocki has submitted to parliament a bill that criminalizes the dissemination of the ideology of Ukrainian nationalist Stepan Bandera. The measure, reported by RMF24 on September 29, equates symbols of the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN) and the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA—both designated as extremist and terrorist groups in Russia) to banned Nazi and Communist symbols. Violators could face up to three years in prison. The proposal also seeks to enhance penalties for denying the Volyn massacre.

The Russian authorities condemned Zelenskiy’s initiative, labeling it a dangerous provocation. Earlier, Nawrocki signed legislation extending support for Ukrainian refugees, granting them special status and benefits until March 2026. Working foreigners continue to receive social assistance, including “800 plus” payments for children.