Poland May Strip Zelensky of Its Highest Honor Over UPA Controversy.

Ukraine and Poland at Odds Over Military Unit Naming

According to Espreso.tv: A growing dispute between Ukraine and Poland over the decision to name a special operations unit after Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) heroes could lead to President Volodymyr Zelensky losing Poland's highest state award. On May 26, 2023, Zelensky signed a decree granting this honorary title to the 'North' Special Operations Center. Just days later, on May 29, Polish official Karol Nawrocki announced plans to strip Zelensky of the honor, signaling a sharp deterioration in bilateral ties. The UPA remains a deeply sensitive topic in Poland, as it is associated with wartime massacres of Poles in Volhynia and Eastern Galicia.

Political Fallout and Calls for Dialogue

Subsequent statements from Polish politicians underscore the severity of the situation. On June 2, 2023, Krzysztof Bosak urged that Ukraine's accession to the European Union be blocked, highlighting the political repercussions of the conflict. On June 5, Donald Tusk emphasized that the responsibility for resolving the matter rests with Ukraine, and on June 8, he called for 'direct and honest' dialogue between Kyiv and Warsaw.

“If we quarrel over the past, someone else will win the future.” — Donald Tusk

Tusk added that 'The President of Ukraine must finally understand this. The Poles too. Before it's too late.' This underscores the urgent need to revive dialogue to preserve good neighborly relations. Włodzimierz Czarzasty, articulating Poland's perspective, stressed: 'It is in Poland's interest to maintain good relations with Ukraine.'

On June 8, a meeting of the Chapter of the Order of the White Eagle took place, which could have been a key step toward resolving the dispute. Despite the tense situation, both sides have an opportunity to find common ground and avoid further escalation.

The conflict between Ukraine and Poland highlights the complexity of their historical relationship, particularly regarding the memory of past tragedies. The importance of dialogue and compromise is clear—not only for preserving bilateral ties but also for ensuring regional stability. Amid rising tensions, it is crucial that both nations seek mutual understanding to prevent further conflict and safeguard their strategic partnership.