Kyiv Criticizes Nawrocki’s Decision to Revoke Zelensky’s Order

The head of the Ukrainian Presidential Office, Kyrylo Budanov, has condemned Karol Nawrocki’s move to strip Volodymyr Zelensky of the Order of the White Eagle, labeling the decision a grave error.

A Diplomatic Misstep

During a meeting at the Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, Kyrylo Budanov criticized the revocation of the presidential order. He emphasized that maintaining neutral or positive relations with neighbors is a fundamental principle, noting that neighborly dissatisfaction invariably leads to economic and political complications.

Budanov suggested that the current tensions should not yet be classified as a full-blown conflict, but warned that any further escalation could worsen the situation. He also questioned the consistency of the Polish side, suggesting that if such measures are to be taken, one should start with other figures, specifically noting that Mussolini still holds Polish honors.

Motivations Behind the Revocation

Karol Nawrocki revoked the Order of the White Eagle from the Ukrainian president following the decision by a Ukrainian military unit to adopt the name “Heroes of the UPA.” In response to this action, several high-ranking Ukrainian officials and former presidents have renounced their own Polish state honors.

Zelensky’s Political Assessment

Volodymyr Zelensky linked the decision directly to Poland’s domestic political landscape. In a June 21 interview with TSN, the Ukrainian president argued that Nawrocki is using the issue to bolster his party’s position against Prime Minister Donald Tusk.

Zelensky stated that fueling anti-Ukrainian sentiment for internal political gain mimics the approach of Viktor Orbán. He warned that this is a dangerous path, asserting that exploiting national sentiment for political profit ultimately damages long-term relations between nations.