Ihor Zhovkva Returns His State Award
Ihor Zhovkva, the deputy head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, has decided to return a Polish state decoration he received in 2022. This move comes in response to actions by Polish authorities, who stripped Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of the Order of the White Eagle—an honor that had been awarded to him in 2023. Zhovkva’s gesture is part of a broader backlash against that decision.
Zhovkva had been granted the Knight’s Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland, but he chose to give it back as a protest against Polish President Karol Nawrocki’s treatment of Ukraine’s leader. In a statement, Zhovkva remarked:
“Today, the Ukrainian people are paying the highest price for the freedom and security of all of Europe.” — Ihor Zhovkva
He also expressed gratitude toward the Polish people, saying:
“Out of respect for the Polish nation and with thanks to all Poles who have supported and continue to support Ukraine, I have decided to return the order.” — Ihor Zhovkva
Ukrainian Officials React in Solidarity
Alongside Ihor Zhovkva, several other Ukrainian officials have announced they are returning their Polish state honors:
- Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Office of the President;
- Andriy Sybiha, Minister of Foreign Affairs;
- Vasyl Bodnar, Ukraine’s ambassador to Poland.
Each cited the Polish government’s actions as the reason for their decision. However, Vyacheslav Abroskin, former first deputy head of the National Police of Ukraine, voiced opposition to this wave of returning Polish awards.
This episode highlights rising diplomatic tensions between Ukraine and Poland, which could have serious implications for bilateral cooperation—especially regarding continued support for Ukraine as it defends its independence and territorial integrity. The return of these decorations is not only a protest but also a signal from Ukrainian officials about the critical importance of international solidarity during a challenging period. As such, the situation may shape future bilateral relations and influence Poland’s policy toward Ukraine going forward.
The recent actions taken against President Zelenskyy have sparked significant unrest within Ukraine, leading to a wave of symbolic gestures from officials. To gain a deeper understanding of the underlying issues, including the controversial decision regarding the Order of the White Eagle, read more about the circumstances that led to this diplomatic fallout in our detailed report on the stripping of Zelenskyy’s honor.