Poland’s President Karol Nawrocki is expected to make a decision regarding the Order of the White Eagle awarded to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the coming days. Reports indicate that the presidential office is creating a strategic pause to allow for potential dialogue with Ukraine.
The Presidential Center has emphasized that the delay in Nawrocki’s decision and the withholding of recommendations from the chapter are intentional, aimed at providing a “window of opportunity” for Ukraine. This approach aims to counter accusations from ruling party politicians that Nawrocki acts emotionally in international matters.
Sources within the Palace have indicated that the timeframe for waiting is limited, with Polish insiders suggesting that the matter is measured in “days, not weeks.” However, there remains the possibility of further delays.
According to Polish media, the only condition that might persuade Nawrocki not to revoke Zelensky’s order is the renaming of a military unit currently named after the Heroes of the UPA. Nawrocki’s circle believes that public opinion in Poland supports the president’s stance on this issue.
The Palace’s strategy was articulated by Minister Marcin Przydacz, head of the Bureau of International Policy (BPM), who stated, “The ball is in the Ukrainian court. If there is no positive response, the procedure will conclude with a presidential decision.” Przydacz noted that there have been no significant gestures from Kyiv, leading to the expectation that the process will ultimately end with Nawrocki’s ruling.
Other representatives from the Palace have communicated cautiously, indicating that Ukraine has a week or two to respond, while Nawrocki intends to announce any decisions himself, similar to the protocol for veto announcements.
The Polish government shares a similar perspective, with Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz recently stating that “there is a chance for an agreement.” He noted that the president’s statement provides time for both Nawrocki to reach a final decision and Zelensky to clarify his position.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk has also called for an agreement between the two presidents. As reported by Rzeczpospolita, Nawrocki is scheduled to visit the United States soon, where he will meet with Donald Trump and representatives of the Polish diaspora. The visit is expected to last until Tuesday.
It is speculated that a decision regarding the order may be announced immediately upon Nawrocki’s return, barring any unforeseen circumstances.
Poland's President Karol Nawrocki is poised to decide on the Order of the White Eagle for Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky within days, amid ongoing discussions and strategic pauses. The outcome hinges on potential actions from Ukraine, particularly regarding the renaming of a military unit.