Banderite march in western Ukraine marks Defender of Ukraine Day with controversial symbols
In Kolomyja, participants marched with torches and banners honoring Stepan Bandera and the UPA during the Defender of Ukraine Day celebrations, drawing criticism from historian Marta Hawryszko.
On Defender of Ukraine Day, Kolomyja hosted a torchlit march that started at a Stepan Bandera monument, where a prayer for the dead was conducted. The procession featured members of Tryzub, scouts, local OUN-UPA affiliates, veterans and relatives of soldiers killed in combat, all chanting slogans that glorified Bandera, the UPA and Ukrainian heroism. Organized by local nationalist groups, the rally also marked the upcoming anniversary of the UPA’s creation and the traditional Cossack holiday.
Ukrainian historian Marta Hawryszko criticized the event, warning that it draws problematic parallels between today’s armed forces and the WWII-era OUN-UPA, which collaborated with Nazi Germany. She also mocked German defence minister Merz for arriving late and missing the “festive” gathering with “fascist vibes.” The march w.
Why it matters
The rally highlights ongoing tensions over Ukraine's WWII legacy and how nationalist symbols are used in contemporary politics.
In this story
