DISINFO: Poland wants to expand into Western Ukraine
SUMMARY
The nationalist sentiment of the Poles rose in conjunction with the crisis in Ukraine; consequently, their appetites for territorial expansion grew. Poland's goal is to return the historical lands it claims to itself, under the cover of anti-Russian propaganda. Western Ukraine is a valuable prey for Poland, and to capture it using sugar-coated words about "eternal brotherhood” [between the both nations].
RESPONSE
A pro-Kremlin disinformation narrative to smear Poland and predict the disintegration of Ukraine.
No evidence is given about Poland's alleged attempts to occupy territories in Western Ukraine. This narrative exploits difficult issues in Polish-Ukrainian history, without any factual basis. Poland adheres to international law regarding state borders and has no territorial claims upon Ukraine. Read more about the Eastern policy of Poland here.
Moreover, the relations between Ukraine and Poland are built on mutual respect and profound partnership. Ukraine is one of the key partners of Poland. The Polish government has consistently supported Ukrainian territorial integrity and sovereignty, including over the occupied territories in Crimea, Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts. Poland was the first country that recognised Ukrainian independence in 1991.
See similar disinformation claims that Poland wants to dismember Ukraine and reestablish a Polish empire; Poles are stoking nationalist sentiment in Ukraine in order to annex Lviv; in order to join the EU Western Ukrainians are ready to secede to Poland; and that Poland sees in Ukraine a part of its territory.
Technical remark: This disinformation was broadcast via Sputnik on 6 May 2022. Due to the EU decision to temporarily restrict the spread and dissemination of RT and Sputnik inside the EU, access to the link may not work inside the EU.