Ukraine’s First Lady Cancels Visit to Gdańsk

Following President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s withdrawal, First Lady Olena Zelenska has cancelled her planned attendance at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Gdańsk, which takes place on June 25–26.

Leadership Changes at the Ukraine Recovery Conference

The Ukraine Recovery Conference, focused on economic and defense support, will proceed in Gdańsk without the presence of the Ukrainian presidential couple. Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko will now lead the Ukrainian delegation instead of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who had previously cancelled his appearance.

Diplomatic Fallout Over Order of the White Eagle

The cancellation follows a diplomatic friction triggered by Karol Nawrocki’s decision on June 19 to revoke President Zelenskyy’s Order of the White Eagle. The move was a direct response to Zelenskyy naming a Ukrainian military unit after the “Heroes of the UPA.” On Saturday, the Ukrainian President announced he had returned the order to Nawrocki.

Government Response to Strained Relations

Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz stated on Tuesday in Madrid that the current impasse stems from the President’s decision regarding the military unit’s title. He emphasized that the Polish government would continue to work toward beneficial economic and security outcomes despite the current political tensions.