Zelensky returns Poland’s highest honor amid escalating row over nationalist wartime unit

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has officially returned Poland’s highest state honor, the Order of the White Eagle, after Polish authorities revoked the award amid a dispute over the historical legacy of WWII. The move marks a significant escalation in tensions between Kyiv and Warsaw, rooted in disagreements over the recognition of Ukrainian nationalist forces linked to wartime atrocities.

The Polish president, Karol Nawrocki, stripped Zelensky of the honor over Ukraine’s decision to name a military unit after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), a paramilitary organization accused of mass killings of Poles during WWII. Zelensky responded by posting on X (formerly Twitter) that he was returning the award, accompanied by photos of the medal and postal receipt indicating it was sent back to Warsaw.

The award was bestowed on Zelensky in 2023 by former Polish President Andrzej Duda for Ukraine’s efforts in security and resilience. The controversy centers on Ukraine’s May decree to honor the UPA, which fought for Ukrainian independence but is accused of atrocities against Poles in the 1940s. Nawrocki, a nationalist politician, justified revoking the honor, citing the UPA’s role in crimes against Poles, and emphasized that the move did not reflect a withdrawal of Polish support for Ukraine’s defense against Russia.

Ukrainian officials, including Kyiv’s military chief Kyrylo Budanov, condemned Nawrocki’s decision, calling it an unfriendly act and a gift to Moscow. Several Ukrainian officials have announced plans to return Polish honors in protest. The dispute has caused concern among Ukrainian and Polish leaders, especially as Poland prepares to host a major event on Ukraine’s postwar reconstruction, which Zelensky was expected to attend.

Impact on Ukraine-Poland Diplomatic Relations

This development underscores ongoing tensions over WWII history that continue to influence Ukraine-Poland relations. While Poland remains a key supporter of Ukraine’s defense against Russia, the dispute over historical memory risks complicating diplomatic cooperation and regional stability. The incident also highlights the influence of nationalist politics in Poland, which has exploited anti-Ukrainian sentiment for electoral gains, despite broad support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.

For Ukraine, the move signals frustration over perceived historical grievances being used as political tools. The controversy could affect upcoming diplomatic meetings and joint initiatives, especially as both countries seek to present a united front against external threats and work toward reconciliation over WWII atrocities.

Historical Disputes and Recent Diplomatic Progress

The controversy centers on Ukraine’s 2026 decree to honor the UPA, which fought during WWII and has been accused of massacring thousands of Poles, especially in Volhynia and Eastern Galicia. Poland officially recognized the UPA’s crimes as genocide in 2016, and the issue remains sensitive in bilateral relations.

Recently, there had been signs of progress. A December 2025 meeting between Polish and Ukrainian presidents indicated some movement toward reconciliation, including discussions on exhuming Polish victims. However, the decision to revoke the honor and the subsequent return by Zelensky has reopened old wounds and increased tensions just ahead of a major reconstruction conference in Poland.

“The dispute over WWII history remains a deeply divisive issue that can threaten diplomatic cooperation between Poland and Ukraine.”

— an anonymous researcher

Unresolved Diplomatic and Historical Tensions

It remains unclear whether this incident will lead to a broader diplomatic crisis or if both sides will seek to de-escalate and restore dialogue. The long-term impact on bilateral relations and upcoming cooperation remains uncertain, especially with upcoming events and regional security considerations.

Next Steps in Ukraine-Poland Relations

Both countries are expected to engage in diplomatic discussions to address the dispute, possibly involving high-level talks to prevent further escalation. The upcoming reconstruction conference in Poland may serve as a platform for dialogue, but tensions over historical issues could persist. The Ukrainian government has indicated it may consider further symbolic gestures in response, depending on how negotiations unfold.

Key Questions

Will Ukraine and Poland reconcile over this dispute?

It is uncertain. Both sides have expressed a desire to maintain cooperation, but the historical disagreements remain a sensitive issue that could affect future relations.

Could this dispute affect military or economic cooperation?

While the current tensions are primarily diplomatic and historical, they could influence broader cooperation if not managed carefully. Both countries have a vested interest in regional stability.

What is the significance of the Ukrainian unit named after UPA?

The designation honors Ukraine’s wartime military traditions but is controversial because of allegations of atrocities committed by the UPA against Poles and others during WWII.

Will the controversy impact upcoming events in Poland?

It may. Leaders are calling for calm, but the dispute could overshadow diplomatic efforts during the reconstruction conference and related gatherings.

Source: Google Trends