The White Eagle Order, Poland’s highest honor, is facing scrutiny following President Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent actions. Awarded to him in April 2023, the order may now be revoked amid rising tensions between Poland and Ukraine.
Established in 1705 and reintroduced in 1921, the White Eagle Order is a prestigious accolade recognizing exceptional civil and military contributions to Poland. It is awarded without ranks and is reserved for the most distinguished individuals, both Polish and foreign. Historically, notable recipients have included monarchs, presidents, and prime ministers.
After World War II, the order was reinstated under the Law on Orders and Decorations in 1992. The initial recommendations for awards were made by a temporary council comprising leaders from the Polish parliament and government. The first recipient of the restored honor was Pope John Paul II in 1993.
The management of the order is overseen by the Chapter of the White Eagle Order, which includes a Grand Master and five members appointed by the Polish president for five-year terms. Upon taking office, every newly elected president automatically becomes a member of the order and its Grand Master.
Recent discussions regarding Zelensky’s award have involved the Chapter of the White Eagle Order. According to spokesperson Rafal Leskiewicz, the Chapter has expressed its opinion to Polish President Karol Nawrocki regarding the potential revocation of the Ukrainian president’s honor. Nawrocki is expected to make a decision in due course.
Zelensky received the White Eagle Order from former Polish President Andrzej Duda on April 5, 2023, in recognition of his significant role in strengthening relations between Poland and Ukraine, promoting democracy, and advocating for human rights.
However, Zelensky’s recent actions have sparked controversy. On May 26, he named a Ukrainian special operations unit after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), a move that has been met with criticism in Poland. President Nawrocki described this decision as indicative of Ukraine’s unpreparedness for European Union membership and expressed a critical view of Zelensky’s actions.
The UPA is a contentious symbol in Polish-Ukrainian history, associated with mass killings of Poles during World War II in regions like Volhynia and Eastern Lesser Poland. While many Ukrainians view the UPA as a representation of their struggle for independence, its legacy remains divisive in Poland.
The White Eagle Order, awarded to Ukrainian President Zelensky in 2023, is under review for potential revocation due to his recent actions. This situation highlights ongoing tensions in Polish-Ukrainian relations, particularly regarding historical interpretations of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army.