Story perspectives

Poland Revokes Zelensky’s White Eagle, Ukraine Returns Honors

6/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Polish President Karol Nawrocki revoked the Order of the White Eagle from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who returned medal.
Three former Ukrainian presidents and senior officials also returned their Polish honors in solidarity with Zelensky.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned the dispute benefits Russia and urged calm to preserve strategic cooperation.
Polish President Karol Nawrocki said Poland will keep providing aid to Ukraine, a refugee hub and logistics centre.

History

Historical Context

After Poland became the first nation to recognize Ukraine’s 1991 independence, it cemented ties by awarding President Leonid Kuchma the Order of the White Eagle in 1995, a decoration given to fewer than 1,200 people since 1921. On 19 June 2026 President Karol Nawrocki stripped President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of the same honor, sparking fresh diplomatic tension amid the ongoing war.

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Story summary

Polish President Karol Nawrocki revoked the Order of the White Eagle from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who returned medal.
Three former Ukrainian presidents and senior officials also returned their Polish honors in solidarity with Zelensky.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned the dispute benefits Russia and urged calm to preserve strategic cooperation.
Polish President Karol Nawrocki said Poland will keep providing aid to Ukraine, a refugee hub and logistics centre.

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