Poland Strips Zelensky of Order After He Names Military Unit After UPA Heroes.

Rising Tensions Between Poland and Ukraine

According to Espreso.tv: A deepening diplomatic rift between Poland and Ukraine has emerged following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s decision to bestow the honorary title 'In the Name of the UPA Heroes' upon the Special Operations Center 'North.' This move, enacted on May 26, 2023, drew immediate backlash from Polish authorities. Two days later, on May 29, 2023, Polish President Karol Nawrocki announced his intention to strip Zelensky of the Order of the White Eagle, marking the start of escalating friction between the neighboring nations.

What Happened Next

On June 2, 2023, Polish politician Krzysztof Bosak called for blocking Ukraine’s accession to the European Union. Then, on June 5, 2023, prominent Polish leader Donald Tusk stated that the responsibility for resolving the situation rests with Ukraine. Tusk later urged for a 'direct and honest' dialogue on June 8, 2023, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong bilateral ties.

By June 19, 2023, Nawrocki finalized his decision to revoke the Order of the White Eagle from Zelensky. In response, the Ukrainian president commented on June 20, 2023, sending the award back to the Polish head of state. Ukrainian official Kyrylo Budanov declared:

'I decline the Golden Officer’s Cross' — Kyrylo Budanov

Meanwhile, Andrii Sybiha stated:

'We will return the Commander’s Cross' — Andrii Sybiha

Donald Tusk remarked that 'a mistake is worse than a crime,' highlighting the gravity of the situation, while Włodzimierz Czarzasty stressed that 'it is in Poland’s interest to maintain good relations with Ukraine.'

These events underscore the fragility of Ukrainian-Polish relations and the urgent need for dialogue to prevent further escalation. With both countries sharing common interests—particularly in security and cooperation within European frameworks—it is vital to preserve constructive ties and seek compromises to avoid additional complications in their bilateral relationship.