Zelensky stripped of Poland's highest honor over WWII unit naming

Poland has stripped Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of the Order of the White Eagle, the nation's highest state honor, in response to Kyiv's decision to name a military unit after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA).

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outrageous

Polish President Karol Nawrocki described the UPA naming as "outrageous," "incomprehensible," and "deeply disappointing." He emphasized that while the UPA is viewed by many in Ukraine as heroes fighting for independence, Poland holds them responsible for the brutal murder of ethnic Poles in Volhynia during World War II. "For the overwhelming majority of Polish society, the UPA remains, above all, a formation responsible for the brutal crimes committed against citizens of the Republic of Poland during World War II," Nawrocki stated.

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incomprehensible

The diplomatic dispute highlights a deep historical rift between the two nations. Despite Poland's strong support for Ukraine following Russia's full-scale invasion, including welcoming hundreds of thousands of refugees, this historical grievance has resurfaced. Nawrocki warned that a "united Europe was built on the rejection of totalitarianism and the cult of violence," suggesting that Ukraine's aspirations for EU membership require an honest confrontation with its past.

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deeply disappointing

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha denounced Warsaw's decision as a "strategic mistake" and "disrespectful." For many Ukrainians, the UPA symbolizes resistance and the struggle for national independence, with their red and black flag often seen on the front lines today. This historical framing clashes sharply with Poland's memory of the Volhynia massacres, where an estimated 100,000 ethnic Poles were killed.

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For the overwhelming majority of Polish society, the UPA remains, above all, a formation responsible for the brutal crimes committed against citizens of the Republic of Poland during World War II.