Ukraine and Poland agree on new excavation and research efforts to uncover historic graves
In light of recent agreements between Ukraine and Poland, the two countries have reaffirmed their commitment to resume joint search and exhumation activities aimed at locating and studying historic burial sites, particularly those linked to tragic events of the past.
Reports indicate that these efforts are slated to restart this spring, with experts from Poland and Ukraine preparing to collaborate on-site.
This initiative will aid in clarifying the fates of many victims from periods of conflict and repression, helping to pinpoint precise locations of mass graves.
Currently, due to unfavorable weather conditions, including heavy rains and other environmental factors, full-scale searches are temporarily halted.
However, archaeological reconnaissance continues, involving landscape analysis and terrain inspections to identify potential burial sites.
Notably, Ukraine has authorized Poland to carry out exhumations on Ukrainian territory, including in the village of Uhly in Rivne Oblast, where previous Polish expeditions identified possible mass burial sites.
Similarly, investigations are underway in the village of Jurechów, conducted by the Lviv-based ‘Dolia’ Memorial and Search Center, focusing on victims of the Volyn tragedy, while excavations near the old cemetery in Zboiska district of Lviv are ongoing to reinter fallen soldiers of the former Polish Army.
Additionally, remains discovered during recent excavations in Puzniki, Ternopil region, have been reburied.
These joint initiatives exemplify Ukraine and Poland’s shared effort to honor the memory of victims and address historical conflicts through collaborative research and respectful commemoration.