Zelensky sends Order of White Eagle to Nawrocki by mail

Zelensky stated this on Telegram, according to Ukrinform.

"Yesterday, the President of Poland noted that the Order of the White Eagle is not an ordinary award. It is a symbol of the highest trust of the Republic of Poland. It signifies a special bond with the Polish state and the special gratitude of the Polish People. Such a symbol requires not only merit, but also respect for the values that form the foundation of our community... We believed that the Order of the White Eagle, awarded in 2023, was meant for the Ukrainian People and our army. That is what was said at the time. Today, I sent the Order back to the President of Poland," Zelensky said.

"If it is considered that this special symbol may remain with Catherine II, Benito Mussolini, and Gerhard Schröder, then we in Ukraine will not argue with that," he added.

At the same time, Zelensky thanked the Polish people for their support and cooperation, which has played a significant role in Ukraine's struggle for independence from Russia. He stressed that Ukraine never forgets solidarity and understands that cooperation between states and peoples in the region is one of the tangible guarantees of security for Ukrainians and for every neighboring country. Ukraine, he emphasized, will continue defending itself in this war.

"I am proud of our people and of EVERY Ukrainian warrior – of the millions of Ukrainian men and women who deserve unquestionable respect for the heroism the Ukrainian People have shown in defending themselves against Russian aggression," the President said.

Regarding future relations with Poland, Zelensky stated that Ukraine would remain open to all meaningful forms of interaction in order to avoid differing interpretations of difficult and painful chapters in the history of both nations and to ensure proper respect for all innocent victims of the twentieth century.

As reported, Polish President Karol Nawrocki decided to revoke the Order of the White Eagle from President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the move as a "strategic mistake" and stressed that Kyiv would not allow others to dictate its history, while expressing hope for the restoration of an equal dialogue between the two states.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha announced that he was returning the Commander's Cross with the Star of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland.

Head of the Presidential Office Kyrylo Budanov declined the Golden Officer's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland.

Ukraine's Ambassador to Poland Vasyl Bodnar returned the Knight's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland.

Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Ihor Zhovkva also announced that he was returning the Knight's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland.