Poland Lists Lviv Regional Council Deputy Sviatoslav Sheremeta as Undesirable
Sviatoslav Sheremeta, a deputy of the Lviv Regional Council, has been declared an undesirable person in Poland, resulting in a ban on his entry to the Schengen Area until 2031. This measure follows the Lviv Regional Council's decision to designate 2027 as the year honoring the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) as well as figures Roman Shukhevych and Oleh Olzhych.
Representing the political party 'European Solidarity,' Sheremeta is both a historian and political scientist. He leads the municipal enterprise 'Dolya,' dedicated to locating the graves of victims of war and political repression. Notably, Poland had previously imposed a one-year entry ban on Sheremeta in 2017 due to controversies surrounding his involvement in search and exhumation activities.
Responses from Poland's Defense Ministry and Ukraine's Foreign Ministry
In reaction to the developments, Poland's Ministry of Defense denied rumors about halting military aid to Ukraine. Janusz Seymej, spokesperson for the Polish Defense Ministry, stated:
"The claims about stopping arms deliveries to Ukraine are false."
Radosław Sikorski, Poland's Foreign Minister, confirmed Sheremeta's inclusion on the list of undesirable individuals.
Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized the Lviv Regional Council's decision as counterproductive to Ukrainian-Polish relations. The ministry emphasized the importance of avoiding provocative actions and reiterated its commitment to maintaining constructive dialogue with Poland.
This incident highlights ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Poland rooted in historical disputes related to the UPA. Sheremeta's blacklisting risks straining bilateral ties, especially in light of Poland's continued military support for Ukraine. Ukraine's diplomatic efforts aim to prevent further escalation while encouraging cooperation. The controversy may also influence political dynamics within the Lviv Regional Council and broader Ukrainian politics.
Understanding these tensions is crucial for international observers, as Poland remains a key ally of Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe.