Budanov: Ukraine to respond to any “unfriendly” Polish actions

Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine's military intelligence agency, said tensions between Ukraine and Poland could reach a peak next week ahead of the July 11 anniversary of the Volhynia tragedy, while stressing that Kyiv would not accept ultimatums from its partners.

Speaking in an interview with RBC-Ukraine, Budanov said he expects "the most difficult phase in bilateral relations is still ahead," with the historical anniversary likely to become the main source of friction.

"The main factor will be the historical date. The Ukrainian side does not plan to act preemptively or take misguided steps. However, any manifestation of unfriendly policy will be met with a response," Budanov said.

He added that Ukraine would not escalate tensions on its own but would respond if Poland took what he described as "immature" or "unfriendly" actions.

"If they make their move, we'll see, and we'll respond. No one is going to sit idly by," he said.

Budanov said periods of heightened tensions generally lead either to further escalation or to de-escalation, expressing hope that relations between Kyiv and Warsaw would ultimately improve after the current dispute.

By Sabina Mammadli