Former Polish President Duda Comments on Possible Award Revocation...

What Happened

On June 3, 2026, Andrzej Duda, Poland’s former president, commented on the intent of his successor, Karol Nawrocki, to revoke the Order of the White Eagle awarded to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This controversy arises from Zelensky's decision to name an elite Ukrainian special operations unit after the Heroes of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA).

Duda conveyed his views in a written statement to Onet, as reported by European Pravda. He remarked on the changes in circumstances since Zelensky received the award in the spring of 2023.

Duda stated, "Volodymyr Zelensky received the Order of the White Eagle at a different time and under different circumstances. Now they have changed, as has the behavior of Volodymyr Zelensky.

And that is obvious."

Key Details

Duda clarified that the ultimate decision regarding the potential revocation rests with President Nawrocki, who will consider the opinions of the chapter overseeing the award. He emphasized that all circumstances and facts must be taken into account when making the decision.

Marton Pshydach, head of the International Policy Bureau of the Polish President, asserted that Zelensky should apologize to Nawrocki due to the naming of the Ukrainian unit. This statement suggests a diplomatic rift stemming from the UPA’s controversial historical significance.

In response to the escalating situation, the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the soldiers involved did not intend to offend the friendly Polish nation with their naming decision.

Why It Matters

The potential withdrawal of such a high honor from a leader engaged in a war could significantly impact Ukrainian-Polish relations. As both nations have historically supported each other, this incident may strain diplomatic ties amidst ongoing security concerns. The situation reflects broader issues surrounding historical memory in post-Soviet states, which continue to influence contemporary politics.

Background

Zelensky was awarded the Order of the White Eagle by Duda in spring 2023, acknowledging Ukraine’s resistance against Russian aggression. The UPA, which operated during World War II, is commemorated by some in Ukraine for its fight against both Nazi and Soviet forces.

However, its legacy is contentious in Poland due to historical conflicts between the UPA and Polish populations during that period. The recent decision by Zelensky to honor the UPA may have been seen as a provocative gesture against a backdrop of historical grievances.