Poland revokes its highest state order from Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Poland's President Andrzej Duda has revoked the White Eagle Order, the country's highest state decoration, from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The decision was announced by Duda in a video message, marking a significant diplomatic rift between the two allied nations.

The revocation is a direct response to the naming of a Ukrainian army unit after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA). This historical organization is responsible for massacres of Poles in the Volhynia region during World War II, an event that led to the deaths of an estimated 100,000 people. The naming of the unit had already triggered a diplomatic conflict between Poland and Ukraine in late May.

Ukraine's government reacted strongly to the revocation, calling it "disrespectful" and a "strategic mistake." This condemnation comes despite Poland being one of Ukraine's most crucial military and humanitarian supporters in its defense against Russia's ongoing invasion.

The dispute highlights the complex and often sensitive historical narratives that can impact contemporary international relations, even between close allies. While Poland continues to be a staunch supporter of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, this historical grievance has surfaced, creating tension in their bilateral relationship.

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The Ukrainian government condemned the revocation of the order as 'disrespectful' and a 'strategic error.'