Poland's Order Returned by Zelensky: Diplomat Chaly Warns Against a 'Flash Mob' Trend.

The White Eagle Order Controversy

According to Espreso.tv: Valeriy Chaly has backed Volodymyr Zelensky's decision to send back Poland's White Eagle Order, stressing the importance of resolving disputes through diplomatic channels. This development follows a chain of events triggered by the naming of a Ukrainian military unit after Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) heroes.

On May 26, 2023, President Zelensky signed a decree bestowing the honorary title 'named after the heroes of the UPA' on the Northern Special Operations Center. The move drew sharp criticism from Poland. Three days later, on May 29, 2023, Karol Nawrocki announced plans to strip Zelensky of the White Eagle Order, a decision finalized on June 19, 2023. The following day, June 20, 2023, Zelensky commented publicly for the first time, stating he had already returned the award.

Rejections of Polish Honors

In addition, several Ukrainian officials have turned down Polish decorations:

• Kyrylo Budanov refused the Golden Officer's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland.
• Andriy Sybiha declared his intention to return the Commander's Cross with Star of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland.
• Vasyl Bodnar also declined a Polish award.

Valeriy Chaly: 'I believe that continuing this kind of 'flash mob' will harm our objectives.'

He also emphasized that he would not give back the order he received specifically for fostering bilateral ties. Chaly expressed solidarity with the view that the notion of 'others dictating terms to us' is unacceptable.

For his part, Donald Tusk stated that 'responsibility for resolving the situation between Kyiv and Warsaw regarding the unit named after the UPA Heroes lies solely with the Ukrainian side.' These remarks highlight the complexity of Ukraine-Poland relations in light of recent events.

The episode underscores the growing strain in Ukraine-Poland relations, fueled by historical and political disagreements. Although both sides have sought common ground, the ongoing tension suggests that achieving stability in bilateral ties will require open dialogue and diplomatic efforts. This issue also highlights the need to account for historical contexts when navigating modern interstate relations.