Zgorzelski on Zelensky’s UPA Stance: “Ukraine Aspires to Regional Leadership”

PSL politician Piotr Zgorzelski addresses the potential withdrawal of the Order of the White Eagle from Volodymyr Zelensky, suggesting that Ukraine’s current strategic direction prioritizes regional influence over Polish-Ukrainian relations.

The Order of the White Eagle Controversy

PSL politician Piotr Zgorzelski commented on rumors regarding Karol Nawrocki’s potential decision to strip the Ukrainian president of the Order of the White Eagle. Zgorzelski suggested that the observed delay indicates a preference for diplomatic channels over an immediate revocation.

The Order of the White Eagle Chapter met on June 8 to advise the President of Poland, though no official decision has been released. Zgorzelski noted that while some expect a decision soon, the ongoing delay implies that diplomatic dialogue is being prioritized to address the contentious issue.

Ukraine’s Strategic Ambitions

Zgorzelski argued that Ukraine is executing a long-term strategy designed to distance itself from close ties with Poland. Despite the ongoing war, Kyiv is anticipating its future position as a military and economic powerhouse, aiming to assert itself as a regional leader.

According to the Deputy Speaker of the Sejm, these strategic maneuvers are calculated. He suggested that Zelensky intentionally ignited emotions in Poland to consolidate nationalist support amid domestic corruption scandals, prioritizing that domestic rally-around-the-flag effect over Polish sensitivities.

Historical Discord Regarding the OUN and UPA

Poland and Ukraine remain divided over the historical assessment of the OUN and UPA. While Poland recognizes the events in Volhynia as genocide, the Ukrainian perspective often characterizes them as a symmetrical conflict or focuses on the organizations’ anti-Soviet resistance.

Zgorzelski emphasized that Poland must develop its own clear strategy toward Ukraine, rooted strictly in its national interest. He noted that while Ukraine’s actions may cause offense, the state is focused on its own survival and regional positioning rather than the reaction of its neighbor.