Poland revokes Order of White Eagle from Zelenskyy in politically charged move

Poland's President Andrzej Duda has revoked the Order of the White Eagle from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a decision that has sparked controversy and is viewed by many as a politically motivated move for internal Polish consumption.

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The decision by Volodymyr Zelenskyy to award the elite unit the name 'Heroes of UPA' was fatal and worthy of condemnation.

The revocation stems from Zelenskyy's earlier decision to honor soldiers of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), a group responsible for the 1943 Volhynia massacre of Poles. The Polish government has consistently condemned any glorification of the UPA, emphasizing that Ukraine must confront its historical past for true good-neighborly relations.

However, critics argue that revoking a prestigious state award from the leader of a nation at war with Russia, especially at a crucial moment, is a misstep. While acknowledging the need to condemn the UPA's actions, they suggest that Duda's decision lacks subtlety and escalates tensions rather than resolving them. The move is perceived as a tactic to appeal to right-wing voters in Poland, demonstrating a tough stance on historical issues.

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The conviction that the Order of the White Eagle is what will make Volodymyr Zelenskyy change his decision, made evidently for the Ukrainian political scene, is far-fetched naivety.

This decision comes at a time when the European Union has shown unified support for Ukraine and Russia appears to be struggling in its war effort. The timing of Duda's action, which some believe suggests Ukraine has no place in the EU under such circumstances, could undermine international solidarity. Analysts suggest that Russia may benefit most from this internal discord between Poland and Ukraine.

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Both presidents are playing their own internal game.