Why Poland Revoked Zelenskyy’s Order: The Reason Has Nothing to Do with Other Recipients.

Behind the Decision to Revoke the Order of the White Eagle

According to Novyny.live: Polish officials have clarified why the Order of the White Eagle was revoked from Volodymyr Zelenskyy, emphasizing that the move stems from his own actions—not from the presence of controversial figures among the award’s recipients. Zelenskyy received the honor from President Andrzej Duda in 2023. On June 20, 2026, however, he returned the decoration by mail.

Agnieszka Jędrak, a minister in the chancellery of Poland’s president, stressed that Polish law does not allow for the withdrawal of state awards after their holders have died. She also pointed out that

“Poland does not revoke an order posthumously”

—a statement reflecting the government’s position on preserving the award’s status, even though some past recipients, such as Benito Mussolini, Catherine II, and Gerhard Schröder, remain on the honor roll.

Ukraine–Poland Relations

According to reports, Zelenskyy returned the award, which Jędrak described as

“adding insult to injury by sending it back through the mail.”

This highlights the growing tension between Ukraine and Poland, as well as the stance taken toward the Ukrainian leader’s actions. The controversy surrounding the Order of the White Eagle has thus become a significant factor in the broader context of international relations and the symbolism of state honors.

Overall, the revocation has sparked public and expert debate, touching not only on Zelenskyy’s conduct but also on the wider implications for the reputation of state awards and their bearers.

The removal of the Order of the White Eagle from Volodymyr Zelenskyy reflects the complex dynamics between Ukraine and Poland—dynamics that could have lasting consequences for bilateral ties. This decision underscores the importance of national award symbolism in international politics and the way it reflects perceptions of individual leaders. Both Poland and Ukraine are likely to continue analyzing and discussing this situation, as it may influence their future cooperation.