Top Ukrainian officials return Polish awards in WWII dispute
Summary
Top Ukrainian officials decided to return awards they received from Poland after Ukrainian President Zelenskyy was stripped of Poland’s highest honour. The dispute grew from Zelenskyy’s naming of a military unit after a Ukrainian group accused of killing Polish people during World War II.Key Facts
- President Zelenskyy named a military unit the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), a group active in the 1940s and 1950s.
- The UPA is accused by many in Poland of committing mass killings of Polish citizens during World War II.
- In response, Polish President Karol Nawrocki removed the Order of the White Eagle award from President Zelenskyy.
- Ukrainian officials, including Zelenskyy’s chief of staff, ambassador to Poland, and foreign minister, said they will return Polish awards given to them.
- Ukrainian officials criticized Poland’s decision, saying it helps Russia’s interests and harms Ukraine.
- Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk called for calming tensions between the two countries.
- The UPA fought both Nazi Germany and Soviet forces but is a controversial group because of violent conflicts with Polish underground forces.
- Poland continues to support Ukraine in its conflict against Russia despite the dispute.
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