Zelensky Returns Polish Order After Controversial Decision

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky returned Poland's Order of the White Eagle in response to a decision by a Polish official to strip him of the award. The decision was made after Zelensky refused to accept other Polish honors.

Following this move, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, head of the presidential office Kyrylo Budanov, and Ukraine's ambassador to Poland Vasyl Bondar expressed their positions. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk criticized the revocation, warning that increasing tension between Poland and Ukraine could benefit Russia.

"Conflict between Poland and Ukraine pleases Putin and worries our allies," Tusk said. He emphasized that the task of both countries' presidents should be to reduce tension, not deepen disagreements, adding that the front line is elsewhere.

The situation has been further complicated by the renaming of Ukraine's Special Operations Forces center "North" to "UPA heroes" on May 26. This step was explained as necessary to "restore the historical traditions of the national army."

Zelensky's decision to return the order caused outrage in Poland, criticized by politicians across the political spectrum.