Polish Politician Błaszczak to Return Ukrainian State Award

Former Polish Minister of Defense and current head of the Law and Justice (PiS) parliamentary club, Mariusz Błaszczak, announced his decision to return a state award bestowed upon him by Ukraine. He declared this action on social media, framing it as a gesture of solidarity.

Błaszczak explained his decision as a show of solidarity with the families of victims of the Volhynia massacre, who have long awaited the opportunity to honor their loved ones. He also views it as an expression of protest against the current stance of the Ukrainian authorities. Furthermore, he stated his decision supports President Karol Nawrocki's position that "memory of Polish victims and the dignity of our state are not subject to negotiation."

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I am returning the order for merits, with which I was honored by the authorities of Ukraine.

"True reconciliation can only be built on the foundation of truth and respect for victims," Błaszczak emphasized in his post. This move follows a similar announcement by PiS leader Jarosław Kaczyński, who also declared his intention to return the Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise, II class, awarded by Ukraine.

Kaczyński linked his decision to his views on Ukrainian elites and his loyalty to President Nawrocki. He also called for blocking further stages of Ukraine's accession negotiations with the European Union, though he stressed this was his personal stance. Kaczyński argued that Ukraine must fulfill conditions related to the Volhynia massacre, including admitting guilt, apologizing, and conducting proper burials for all victims. Despite these tensions, he reiterated his support for Ukraine's defense against Russia, deeming it strategically important for Poland.

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True reconciliation can only be built on the foundation of truth and respect for victims.