Leonid Kuchma Returns Polish Eagle Order in Protest Over Warsaw's Move Against Zelenskyy.

Kuchma Rejects Poland's Highest Honor After Zelenskyy Is Stripped of Same Award

According to Novyny.live: Ukraine's second president, Leonid Kuchma, has returned the Order of the White Eagle—Poland's most prestigious decoration—in protest against President Andrzej Duda's decision to revoke the same award from Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Kuchma, who originally received the honor back in 1997, announced his move in a statement released on June 20. This development comes amid growing friction between Kyiv and Warsaw over historical and political disputes.

In his statement, Kuchma declared:

“In connection with the decision of Polish President Andrzej Duda to strip Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of the Polish Order of the White Eagle, I have decided to renounce this award myself.”

Kuchma also emphasized that building strong ties with Poland was a top priority throughout his presidency. He recalled the 2003 joint reconciliation declaration between Ukraine and Poland, and highlighted the role of Pope John Paul II in shaping a principle of mutual forgiveness, stating:

“We forgive and ask for forgiveness—this is the principle President Kwaśniewski and I developed under the spiritual guidance of the great Pole, Pope John Paul II.”

Ukrainian Politicians Rally Behind Zelenskyy

Kuchma further expressed hope that the friendship and alliance between Ukraine and Poland would endure, saying: “I believe the friendship and allied relations between Ukraine and Poland will be preserved.”

Other Ukrainian political figures have also weighed in. Andriy Sybiha and Ihor Zhovkva returned their own awards in solidarity with Zelenskyy. Kyrylo Budanov, meanwhile, labeled Poland's move against the Ukrainian president as unfriendly and damaging to bilateral ties.

The episode underscores a deepening strain in Ukrainian-Polish relations triggered by the Polish president's decision and the subsequent backlash from Ukrainian leaders. Even as a former head of state, Kuchma felt compelled to take a stand in defense of the principles of friendship between the two nations.

Kuchma's rejection of the Order of the White Eagle reflects not only his personal stance but also broader political sentiment in Ukraine regarding relations with Poland. The reactions from other politicians indicate that the situation has sparked significant resonance both in society and political circles. The tension between Ukraine and Poland could have far-reaching consequences for their bilateral relationship, especially as both countries face shared external challenges and need mutual support on the international stage.