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Zelenskyy Renames Unit “Heroes of UPA,” Sparks Polish Outcry

5/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a decree renaming a special-forces unit “Heroes of the UPA,” prompting Polish outrage.
Polish President Karol Nawrocki called the decree outrageous, urged withdrawal of Zelenskyy’s Order of the White Eagle, and set a council for June 8.
Minister Donald Tusk said the renaming wounds Poland and may strain ties with Ukraine, prompting Peace Prize laureate Lech Walesa to stop wearing a Ukrainian flag pin in protest.

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Story summary

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a decree renaming a special-forces unit “Heroes of the UPA,” prompting Polish outrage.
Polish President Karol Nawrocki called the decree outrageous, urged withdrawal of Zelenskyy’s Order of the White Eagle, and set a council for June 8.
Minister Donald Tusk said the renaming wounds Poland and may strain ties with Ukraine, prompting Peace Prize laureate Lech Walesa to stop wearing a Ukrainian flag pin in protest.