Prime Minister Mark Carney's recent visit to Kyiv coincided with Ukraine's Independence Day, reinforcing the solidarity shown by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during his four trips to Ukraine since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. Carney's trip followed his visit to Poland, a key ally of Ukraine and a significant military power in Europe today.

Historically, Poland and Ukraine were once adversaries, but their relationship has transformed dramatically. This reconciliation is notable, especially considering that when millions of Ukrainians fled to Poland in 2022, they were welcomed into Polish homes rather than placed in refugee camps. The 20th century was challenging for both nations, often referred to as the "bloodlands" by historian Timothy Snyder due to the conflicts and struggles they faced between larger powers like Germany and Russia.

Choosing a national day can be straightforward for younger nations. For example, Canada celebrates its confederation on July 1, while the United States marks its independence on July 4. However, the history of the Slavic peoples is more intricate. Ukrainians celebrate August 24, the date in 1991 when their parliament declared independence from the Soviet Union, a decision later supported by over 90% of voters in a referendum. This moment was significant for a nation with roots tracing back to 988, as independence from Moscow remains a critical issue today.

In Poland, Independence Day is observed on November 11, coinciding with Remembrance Day in Canada. This date commemorates the restoration of Poland's sovereignty at the end of World War I in 1918, after being partitioned by Prussia, Austria, and Russia in 1795. Despite losing its political existence for 123 years, Poland maintained its cultural and spiritual identity, ultimately reemerging as a nation.

During a visit to Poland in 1983, Pope John Paul II addressed the importance of national identity and freedom, reflecting on the sacrifices made by the Polish people. He stated, "Tell me what your love is, and I’ll tell you who you are," emphasizing the deep connection between love for the nation and the struggle for freedom. He acknowledged the heavy price of Polish freedom compared to other nations, noting, "While our Polish freedom is so expensive, I will not, dear ones, make a comparative analysis. I will only say that it is precisely what costs that constitutes value."

This sentiment resonates with the ongoing challenges faced by Ukrainians in their quest for national identity and independence, particularly in light of recent conflicts. The historical context of both Poland and Ukraine highlights the enduring struggle for sovereignty and the profound significance of their national days.