Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he had sent the Order of the White Eagle back to Polish President Karol Nawrocki.
In his statement, Zelenskyy recalled the Polish president’s words that the Order of the White Eagle is not an “ordinary distinction,” but a symbol of the highest trust of the Republic of Poland, a special bond with the Polish state and the gratitude of its people.
“So, if it is believed that this special symbol may remain with Catherine II, Benito Mussolini and Gerhard Schroeder, then we in Ukraine will not argue with that,” Zelenskyy said.
The president stressed that Ukraine is grateful to the Polish people for their support and cooperation, which plays a significant role in the struggle “for our and your independence from Russia.”
According to Zelenskyy, Ukraine never forgets solidarity and understands that cooperation between the states and peoples of the region is one of the tangible security guarantees for Ukrainians and for every neighboring country.
He also said Ukraine will continue to defend itself in the war unleashed by Russia and “will definitely achieve a dignified peace.”
Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine will remain open to all meaningful formats of cooperation with Poland in order to prevent differing interpretations of the difficult and painful pages in the history of the two nations and to ensure proper respect for all innocent victims of the 20th century.
“I am proud of our people and every Ukrainian warrior — millions of Ukrainian men and women who deserve unquestionable respect for the heroism shown by the Ukrainian people in defending against Russian aggression,” the president said.
According to Zelenskyy, Ukraine believed that in 2023 the Order of the White Eagle was addressed specifically to the Ukrainian people and the Ukrainian army.
“Today I sent the Order to Mr. President of Poland. I think the future will confirm respect for Ukrainians,” Zelenskyy said.
