Zelenskyy Returns Order of the White Eagle, Citing Controversial Past Recipients

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has returned Poland’s highest state honor, the Order of the White Eagle, arguing that its prestige is compromised by the inclusion of historical figures like Catherine the Great and Benito Mussolini.

A Symbolic Withdrawal

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced he has returned the Order of the White Eagle, Poland’s highest state decoration, which he received in 2023. He stated that since the order is held by individuals such as Catherine the Great, Benito Mussolini, and Gerhard Schröder, Ukraine does not intend to dispute the matter.

Zelenskyy clarified that he initially believed the 2023 award was intended not just for him, but for the entire Ukrainian nation and its military. He emphasized that the decision to return the honor followed the announcement by Polish President Karol Nawrocki to strip him of the decoration.

Continued Gratitude Amidst Political Friction

Despite this political gesture, Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine’s gratitude for the support provided by the Polish people since the onset of the Russian invasion. He highlighted that regional cooperation remains a fundamental pillar of security for Central and Eastern Europe.

The Ukrainian leader expressed a willingness to engage in rational dialogue regarding historical grievances, noting that both nations must maintain respect for the victims of past tragedies while focusing on the ongoing struggle for regional security.

The Dispute Over Historical Memory

The decision to revoke the honor was initiated by Polish President Karol Nawrocki following Ukraine’s naming of a military unit after the “Heroes of the UPA.” In Poland, the Ukrainian Insurgent Army is associated with the massacres of Polish citizens in Volhynia and Eastern Lesser Poland.

Nawrocki stated that his duty as Grand Master of the Order of the White Eagle is to protect the prestige of the award. He stressed that this action is directed at the specific policy decision of the Kyiv government and does not signify a reduction in Polish support for Ukraine’s defense against Russian aggression.