Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been stripped of Poland’s highest state distinction, the Order of the White Eagle, following Kyiv’s decision to name a military unit after a controversial World War II-era formation.
Polish President Karol Nawrocki described Ukraine’s decision to name the unit after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) as “scandalous,” “incomprehensible,” and “deeply disappointing.”
However, Nawrocki emphasized that the diplomatic dispute would not affect Poland’s support for Ukraine in its ongoing war against Russia.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha condemned Warsaw’s decision, calling it a “strategic mistake” and a sign of “disrespect.”
In Ukraine, the UPA is widely regarded by many as a force that fought for the country’s independence against the Soviet Red Army, Nazi Germany, and Polish authorities during World War II. As a result, the title “Heroes of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army” carries significant symbolic importance.
Poland, however, accuses the UPA of committing genocide against ethnic Poles in Volhynia (present-day Volyn, Ukraine) between 1943 and 1945.
“For the overwhelming majority of Polish society, the UPA remains, above all, a formation responsible for serious crimes against citizens of the Republic of Poland during World War II,” Nawrocki said in a video published on the official website of the Polish presidency.
“Therefore, the decision of the Ukrainian authorities to glorify the UPA is not only scandalous, but also incomprehensible and deeply disappointing,” he added.
He stressed that the issue affects not only historical memory but also the trust that has been built between the two nations over the years.
The Polish president also highlighted the support Poland has provided to hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian refugees since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022.
“Poles opened their borders, their homes, and their hearts to millions of Ukrainians,” he said.
Nawrocki further stated that Ukraine’s path toward European Union membership requires an honest reckoning with the more difficult chapters of its history.
“A united Europe was built on the rejection of totalitarianism and the cult of violence. These principles must apply to everyone. Those who fail to understand this have no place in the European Union, and Poland will not allow it,” he said.
Ukraine is seeking EU membership and this week took part in the first stage of accession negotiations in Luxembourg.
