The Polish National Opera in Warsaw hosted the world premiere of “Mothers of Kherson” on October 16. The work by Ukrainian composer Maxim Kolomiiets addresses atrocities committed during Russia’s aggression. At a performance later that month, the audience gave the production a standing ovation lasting nearly 15 minutes, applauding both its performers and its artistic impact.
The response also reflected the solidarity Poland has shown Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in 2022. But the country’s public mood has become more divided, with nationalist and far-right voices increasingly directing hostility towards Ukrainians.
Around 1.5 million Ukrainians live in Poland and face verbal and physical assaults, according to the report. Poland continues to provide military assistance to Ukraine, while nationalist groups seek to regain power in parliamentary elections scheduled for autumn 2027. The report says these groups have stoked xenophobia by blaming Ukrainians for various problems, despite studies indicating that their integration is going well.
Sources: Le Monde Culture.