Dumenko tells Polish politicians how to overcome historical divisions

Dumenko with Polish Sejm member Paweł Kowal. Photo: OCU

OCU head Epifaniy Dumenko urged the Polish authorities to use a formula associated with the Roman pontiff to address historical disputes. During a meeting with Polish government representative Paweł Kowal, he called for mutual understanding on issues rooted in the past.

At the meeting, held at the residence adjoining St Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery, the parties discussed the development of relations between the two countries and the importance of personal contacts. Dumenko stressed that historical divisions should be addressed using John Paul II’s formula: “We forgive and ask for forgiveness.”

According to him, “sincere dialogue” is needed to prevent Russia from exploiting old grievances to inflame conflicts – something he believes directly benefits the Russian Federation.

The OCU leader also expressed gratitude to the Polish people for their support. The participants paid particular attention to the situation in territories outside Kyiv’s control, where, according to Dumenko, religious communities are being persecuted and churches destroyed. In particular, he mentioned the recent strike on the Dormition Cathedral of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.

The meeting was also attended by OCU spokesman Yevstratiy Zoria and representatives of the Polish Sejm and the Polish Embassy, Arkadiusz Sarna and Krzysztof Kuboń.

As the UOJ previously reported, Dumenko said that a National Pantheon of Heroes should be established.

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