The former President of Ukraine, Petro Poroshenko, has declined the Order of the White Eagle, Poland’s highest state honor. This decision is framed as a response to actions taken by Polish President Mateusz Morawiecki, although Poroshenko also attributes the ongoing crisis to both nations.
Poroshenko characterized Morawiecki’s decision as “incorrect and unjust towards the people of Ukraine” and noted that the Kremlin has already expressed support for the Polish president. He emphasized that the awards given to him and current President Volodymyr Zelensky were intended to honor the Ukrainian people and their soldiers, who defend not only Ukraine but also Poland and Europe.
He stated that he had pledged two weeks prior to his colleagues in a preparatory meeting that he would take this step if he could not persuade Morawiecki otherwise, adding, “Unfortunately, it did not work out.”
Poroshenko agreed with Donald Tusk’s assertion that disputes over the past could allow others to gain an advantage in the future, echoing Radoslaw Sikorski’s warning that only Moscow stands to benefit from conflicts over history and honors.
He also raised questions regarding the Ukrainian government, asking who had put the state in a position where complex historical issues became tools for confrontation. He pointed out that escalation only serves Moscow’s interests.
Poroshenko stressed that the crisis between Kyiv and Warsaw extends beyond diplomatic disagreements, framing it as a matter of security. He claimed that Russia is attempting to undermine logistical support for Ukraine through “agents of influence and useful idiots.”
“For us, Rzeszów is not just a Polish city. It is a symbol of international solidarity with Ukraine,” he stated.
In light of the ongoing tensions, Poroshenko proposed that discussions aimed at resolving the crisis should commence on Monday. He referenced the formula of Pope John Paul II: “We forgive and ask for forgiveness.”
He concluded by noting that while politicians may engage in symbolic gestures, diplomats must focus on overcoming the crisis rather than exchanging honors.
It is worth noting that Poroshenko is the fourth Ukrainian president to return the Order of the White Eagle. Previous recipients who have declined the honor include Zelensky, Leonid Kuchma, and Viktor Yushchenko.
The current diplomatic strain was triggered by Zelensky’s decision to rename a military unit in honor of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), prompting Morawiecki to initiate the revocation of the honor awarded to Zelensky.
Ukrainian Presidential Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak reportedly held closed-door negotiations in Warsaw, where, according to RBC-Ukraine, the “worst-case scenario” was averted.
Tusk has warned that conflicts over historical narratives could have detrimental effects on future relations, while Sikorski has cautioned that only Moscow could emerge victorious in the ongoing struggle over history and honors.
Petro Poroshenko has declined Poland's highest honor, the Order of the White Eagle, amid escalating tensions between Ukraine and Poland. This decision highlights the complex interplay of historical grievances and security concerns affecting diplomatic relations between the two nations.