Relations between Ukraine and Poland are facing renewed diplomatic tension after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky decided to name a unit of Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA).
The decision has triggered strong reactions in Poland, where the UPA is widely associated with the Volhynia massacres of 1943–1945, in which tens of thousands of ethnic Poles were killed during World War II.
Polish President Karol Nawrocki Karol Nawrocki has described the move as “glorifying bandits and murderers” and is reportedly considering revoking Ukraine’s highest state honor previously awarded to Zelensky — the Order of the White Eagle.
The issue has sparked political reactions across Poland’s political spectrum. Law and Justice (PiS) politicians have called for a reassessment of relations with Kyiv, while right-wing figures have urged restrictions on military and political support for Ukraine and opposition to its EU accession process.
Even Prime Minister Donald Tusk Donald Tusk, a strong supporter of Ukraine, has called on Kyiv to take steps to prevent further deterioration in bilateral relations.
For Ukraine, the UPA remains a symbol of resistance and the struggle for independence against the Soviet Union. President Zelensky has defended the decision as part of preserving national historical traditions.
Despite diplomatic efforts, including a visit to Warsaw by Ukrainian presidential chief of staff Kyrylo Budanov, tensions have not significantly eased.
Analysts warn that any move to revoke Zelensky’s decoration could mark a serious setback in relations between two key regional allies, especially as Poland remains one of Ukraine’s strongest supporters in its war against Russia.
They also note that both governments are under pressure to maintain unity, with Polish officials emphasizing that continued cooperation is crucial in countering Russian influence in the region.
