Return of the Symbol of the Liberation Struggle: Unique UPA Flag Revisited in Kyiv
During the celebrations of Ukraine’s founding of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), a significant historical artifact was presented at the National Museum of Ukrainian History, symbolizing Ukrainian resistance and the fight for independence.
This is a combat flag of the UPA, embroidered with the tryzub and a sword, bearing traces of blood from Ukrainian insurgents, making it an emblem of sacrifice and dedication to the ideals of freedom and sovereignty.
Renaissance photojournalist Vasyl Artyushenko, who has documented much of Ukraine’s resistance history, attended the event.
His wartime journey ended on March 21, 1944, during a fierce battle in the village of Velyka Moshchanytsia in Rivne region.
Ukrainian insurgents fought bravely for over seven hours against Soviet partisans from the Kamianets-Podilskyi unit named after Mykhailov, who outnumbered the Ukrainians considerably.
Despite their heroism and counterattacks, most fighters were killed.
Official Soviet reports documented the loss of 224 UPA fighters in that battle.
During these operations, Soviet partisans employed scorched-earth tactics, which caused casualties among civilians as well.
A notable fact is that the captured flag was later displayed as a trophy in the exhibition titled ‘Partisans of Ukraine in the Fight Against Nazi-Fascist Invaders’ held in Kyiv from 1946 to 1951.
After the exhibit’s closure, the flag was transferred to the State Historical Museum and is now preserved in the National Museum of Ukrainian History.
To honor the UPA’s founding, this historic symbol of resistance will be displayed for three days during the celebration.
A thematic gathering called ‘We Were Born for Great Moments’ featured historians and contemporary warriors, including Ivan Patryliak and Bogdan Skopnenko, discussing the continuity of Ukrainian resistance—from mid-20th century insurgents to modern defenders safeguarding the country from Russian aggression.