Poland Strips Zelenskyy of the Order of the White Eagle Over UPA Controversy

Polish President's Decision

According to Главком: Polish President Karol Nawrocki has announced the decision to revoke the Order of the White Eagle-Poland’s highest state honor-from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This move stems from Ukrainian Presidential Decree No. 440/2026, which granted the honorary designation 'Named after the UPA Heroes' to the Special Operations Center 'North.' For this revocation to take effect, it requires countersignature by Poland’s Prime Minister.

Comments from the Polish President

Nawrocki emphasized that stripping the award is not an act of aggression against the Ukrainian people and does not alter Poland’s strategic security policy.

'I want to stress: this decision is not directed against the Ukrainian people. It does not change the strategic direction of Polish security policy. We have supported and continue to support Ukraine because we know that Russian aggression poses a threat to Poland and all of Europe.'

- Karol Nawrocki.

The escalation in Ukraine-Poland relations was triggered specifically by Zelenskyy’s decree, which sparked outrage in Warsaw. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha confirmed that tensions between the two nations have indeed intensified. At the same time, Nawrocki underscored the importance of remembering history and respecting ancestors, stating:

'We Poles remember our own. We do not abandon them and always remind others of them. Respect for ancestors and honesty about history is a duty for all of us. A people that loses its memory loses part of its soul.'

Furthermore, the Polish president asserted that those who fail to grasp the significance of historical memory 'have no place in the European Union, and Poland will certainly not agree to it.' This indicates that despite the decision regarding the Order of the White Eagle, Poland remains committed to supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression-but demands that Kyiv incorporate historical considerations into its policies.

This situation highlights the complexity of Ukraine-Poland relations. While both countries share common interests in countering Russian aggression, deep historical grievances persist. The importance of historical memory and its impact on modern political decisions is crucial for both nations, and this move could signal further discussions about mutual understanding and regional cooperation. Such steps may shape future bilateral ties, particularly in the context of their integration into European structures.

The recent decision by President Nawrocki comes in light of escalating tensions between Poland and Ukraine, as highlighted by earlier warnings from Duda regarding the potential loss of honors for Zelenskyy. This situation reflects the complex historical relations and the importance of mutual respect in diplomatic ties. For a deeper understanding of the background and implications of these developments, see more about the warnings surrounding Zelenskyy's honors.