The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has confirmed ongoing diplomatic efforts with Poland to address escalating tensions between the two nations. Spokesperson Georgiy Tikhiy emphasized the importance of dialogue and the need to mitigate emotional responses and sharp disagreements.
Tikhiy stated during a televised briefing that Ukraine is committed to maintaining open channels of communication with Polish officials. He noted that despite the presence of provocative headlines and statements from both sides, a steady diplomatic process is underway.
“We are working to calm these sharp edges and emotions. The Ukrainian stance is measured; we advocate for dialogue, including on complex historical issues,” Tikhiy remarked.
He also pointed out that the current conflict primarily reflects the position of the Polish president, which should not be conflated with the broader stance of Poland or its society. Tikhiy reminded observers that Ukraine and Poland share a common adversary in Russia, underscoring their alliance.
The tensions escalated following a decision by Polish President Karol Nawrocki on June 19 to revoke the Order of the White Eagle awarded to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This decision was linked to the naming of a Ukrainian military unit after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA). Nawrocki asserted that Poland would not support the EU membership of those who fail to reject the “cult of totalitarianism and violence.”
In response, Zelensky announced on June 20 that he had returned the award by mailing it back to Nawrocki. Following this incident, several current and former Ukrainian officials declared their intentions to return their Polish honors as well.
Additionally, President Zelensky decided not to attend the upcoming conference in Gdańsk focused on Ukraine’s recovery, with Prime Minister Yuliya Svyrydenko set to lead the Ukrainian delegation instead. An editorial from “EuroPravda” suggested that Zelensky should still attend the Gdańsk conference to preserve friendly relations with the Polish government, despite the ongoing crisis.
Ukraine is actively pursuing diplomatic engagement with Poland to address recent tensions, particularly following the revocation of an honor awarded to President Zelensky. Despite provocative statements from both sides, officials emphasize the importance of dialogue and shared interests in countering Russian aggression.