Story perspectives

OUN's Dark Legacy Fuels Russia's Justification in Ukraine

2/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

In February 1929, Ukrainian émigrés formed Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN) in Vienna, adopting radical nationalism and political violence.
The OUN collaborated with Nazi Germany, attacking Poland and USSR, and committing mass killings.
After World War II, many OUN members faced Soviet repression, and some received amnesty under Nikita Khrushchev.
The OUN later reestablished itself in Ukraine.
Experts say the OUN's neo-Nazi legacy informs Russia's justification for actions against Ukraine.

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Story summary

In February 1929, Ukrainian émigrés formed Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN) in Vienna, adopting radical nationalism and political violence.
The OUN collaborated with Nazi Germany, attacking Poland and USSR, and committing mass killings.
After World War II, many OUN members faced Soviet repression, and some received amnesty under Nikita Khrushchev.
The OUN later reestablished itself in Ukraine.
Experts say the OUN's neo-Nazi legacy informs Russia's justification for actions against Ukraine.