Zelenskyy Faces Revocation of the Order of the White Eagle Over Dispute Involving UPA.

Ukraine and Poland Clash Over Historical Legacy

According to Espreso.tv: A growing rift between Ukraine and Poland has been triggered by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s decision to grant the honorary title ‘Named after the UPA Heroes’ to the ‘North’ Special Operations Center. This move has prompted Polish President Karol Nawrocki to announce plans to strip Zelenskyy of the prestigious Order of the White Eagle.

On May 26, 2026, Zelenskyy signed a decree officially bestowing the designation on the military unit. In retaliation, Nawrocki declared on May 29, 2026, that he intended to revoke the award previously given to the Ukrainian leader. A pivotal meeting of the Order of the White Eagle Chapter took place in Poland on June 8, 2026, marking a significant step in the escalating dispute.

Political Reactions and Calls for Restraint

In early June 2026, the Polish civic group Akcja Demokracja launched a petition drive targeting Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Nawrocki stated, ‘In connection with Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s agreement to name a military unit after the UPA Heroes, I have decided to take back the Order of the White Eagle from the President of Ukraine.’ Despite the tension, he affirmed that ‘Poland remains ready to cooperate with Ukraine.’

Donald Tusk remarked: ‘If we quarrel over the past, someone else will win the future.’

Tusk emphasized the need for responsibility in resolving the Kyiv-Warsaw standoff, noting that ‘the responsibility for resolving the situation between Kyiv and Warsaw regarding the unit named after the UPA Heroes lies solely with the Ukrainian side.’ Meanwhile, Włodzimierz Czarzasty expressed that ‘it is in Poland’s interest to maintain good relations with Ukraine.’

This incident highlights how sensitive historical issues can strain modern diplomatic ties between Ukraine and Poland. Both nations share critical interests, particularly in security and cooperation amid ongoing threats, yet their complex historical narratives risk undermining these partnerships. Finding a path to constructive dialogue remains essential for both sides to navigate such conflicts.