Full Breakdown
Poland Revokes Zelenskiy's Order of the White Eagle Over UPA Naming
6/20/2026, 7:41:21 AM
Revocation of Poland's Highest Honour
On 19 June 2026, President Karol Nawrocki announced the revocation of the Order of the White Eagle from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. The decision follows Zelenskiy’s approval of a decree naming a Ukrainian Armed Forces unit “Heroes of the UPA,” a reference to the World-War-Two Ukrainian Insurgent Army.
Historical Context and Divergent Views
The Ukrainian Insurgent Army fought Soviet and Nazi forces during World War II but also perpetrated the Volhynia massacres (1943-45), in which Poland estimates 100,000 deaths; sources note thousands of Ukrainian deaths. Kyiv asserts the unit’s name honors anti-Moscow resistance, not an affront to Poland. The legacy of these events continues to shape bilateral relations.
Data and Statistics
The Order of the White Eagle was awarded to Zelenskiy in 2023 and revoked on 19 June 2026. Poland estimates 100,000 deaths in the Volhynia massacres; sources note thousands of Ukrainian deaths. Decree concerns a special-forces unit.
Official Statements & Responses
President Nawrocki framed the revocation as a response to Zelenskiy’s consent to name a unit after UPA, stressing the measure does not target Ukrainian people nor change Poland’s security strategy. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Sybiha called the move a “strategic error,” accusing Poland of escalation and asserting no foreign president can dictate Ukrainian history. A spokesperson for Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s office was not immediately reachable.
Criticism & Opposition
Polish public opinion has grown increasingly negative toward Ukraine, citing fatigue over refugees, disputes over grain imports, and memories of WWII massacres. Former President Lech Walesa announced he would stop wearing a Ukrainian-flag badge and would not support Zelenskiy, while still endorsing Ukraine’s fight against Russia.
What's Next
The revocation precedes a Gdansk conference on Ukraine’s reconstruction, raising concerns that the dispute could affect diplomatic coordination and aid discussions. Polish officials have not signaled any shift in security cooperation, but the episode may shape bilateral talks in the coming weeks.
Verbatim Quotes
- "In light of President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's consent to name one of the units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine “Heroes of the UPA,”... I have decided to revoke the Order of the White Eagle from the President of Ukraine." — Karol Nawrocki, President of Poland
- "At this point, I would like to emphasize: this decision is not directed against the Ukrainian people. It does not signify a change in the strategic direction of Polish security policy." — Karol Nawrocki, President of Poland
- "We regret that instead of looking for solutions, the Polish side decided to escalate this conflict to an unacceptable and inappropriate level." — Andrii Sybiha, Ukrainian Foreign Minister
- "No president of another country is going to dictate our history to us." — Andrii Sybiha, Ukrainian Foreign Minister
