Poland’s Foreign Minister Calls Ukraine’s Response to Zelensky’s Decree Humiliating

Rising Tensions Between Ukraine and Poland

According to Главком: Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski has described the reaction of Polish President Karol Nawrocki to Ukraine’s decision as inappropriate, adding that it disrespected President Volodymyr Zelensky. This incident has fueled diplomatic friction between the two neighboring countries. Sikorski also raised the issue of Ukraine’s European integration, pointing out that the ratification of the EU accession treaty requires the signature of Poland’s president.

On May 27, President Zelensky signed a decree granting the honorary name “Heroes of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA)” to the Special Operations Center North. This move drew sharp criticism from Nawrocki. In response, the Polish president withdrew the Order of the White Eagle, prompting Ukrainian officials to return Polish state honors. Among those who gave back their awards were:

• Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha
• Head of the Presidential Office Kyrylo Budanov
• Ukraine’s Ambassador to Poland Vasyl Bodnar

“Our response was also inappropriate because it personally humiliated the president of Ukraine,” Sikorski stated.

Sikorski emphasized that such actions “eliminated the possibility of dialogue with the leader of a key country that is at war.” He also urged finding a more suitable name for the military unit, highlighting the historical context of the UPA and its role in Polish-Ukrainian relations: “He should have thought: yes, the UPA fought against Soviet rule, but it also killed Poles. So perhaps we should find and suggest a better name for the soldiers.”

Additionally, Sikorski expressed hope that Ukraine would present strong arguments to persuade Poland’s president to ratify the EU accession treaty, underscoring the importance of this issue for future bilateral relations. Against this backdrop, Nawrocki’s approval rating in Poland has reached an all-time high of 54.8%, according to an IBRiS poll, reflecting his growing popularity in the country.

As a result, tensions between Ukraine and Poland remain high, and the next steps both countries take to resolve the conflict are uncertain. Ukraine’s path to EU membership and Poland’s continued support are likely to be central to their bilateral relationship. However, overcoming the current disagreements-rooted in historical narratives and national sentiments-will be essential. How both sides manage these challenges will shape their future cooperation.

The ongoing diplomatic tensions between Ukraine and Poland have escalated further, especially following the recent decision by Poland's president to revoke Zelenskyy's honorary title. This move has added another layer of complexity to the already strained relations, as both nations navigate their historical grievances while seeking a path forward in European integration.