Polish and Ukrainian officials have started preparing for the exhumation of victims from the Volhynia massacres. Both governments agreed last month to recover remains from mass graves, aiming to ease historical tensions.

The 1943 massacres, carried out by the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) in Nazi-occupied Poland, resulted in the deaths of around 100,000 Polish civilians. Historians confirm that other ethnic groups, including Armenians, Jews, Russians, Czechs, and Georgians, were also among the victims.

Poland and Ukraine Begin Joint Exhumation Efforts

Ukrainian Ambassador Vasyl Bodnar confirmed that all necessary permits for an exhumation site in Western Ukraine have been approved.

On Tuesday, Polish Minister of Culture Hanna Wróblewska announced that a Polish-Ukrainian team will lead the excavation efforts. The exhumation will begin in Puzhnyky, where a burial site was discovered in 2023.

Wróblewska emphasized the need for cooperation, stating that both Polish organizations and Ukrainian authorities must work together on this effort. Officials expect the exhumations to begin in April.

Strengthening Relations Through Historical Recognition

Authorities plan to use DNA testing to identify victims and determine the causes of death. This scientific approach will ensure accuracy in documenting the events.

Poland officially classifies the Volhynia massacres as genocide, while Ukraine views them as part of a shared historical conflict. Officials hope the exhumation process will improve diplomatic ties and encourage cooperation between the two nations.

Wróblewska urged patience and careful handling of the process, cautioning against political manipulation.