Zelensky Returns Polish Order by Courier, Prompting Polish Public Outcry

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky returned the Order of the White Eagle, Poland’s highest state decoration, to its presenter Karol Nawrocki by means of a courier service. The gesture followed Nawrocki’s decision to withdraw the award after Zelensky approved the naming of a Ukrainian Armed Forces unit "Heroes of UPA".

A United Surveys poll commissioned by Wirtualna Polska surveyed 1,000 Poles between 26‑28 June 2026. Overall, 69.3 % judged Zelensky’s action offensive toward Poland, with 44.1 % answering “definitely yes” and 25.2 % “rather yes”. Opinion varied by political affiliation: 52 % of respondents supporting the governing coalition viewed the return as insulting, whereas 85 % of opposition voters did. Among non‑voters, 66 % shared the critical view.

Polish commentators debated the diplomatic symbolism of delivering such a prestigious order through a parcel, noting that traditional ceremonies underscore respect. Some analysts suggested the courier method reflected wartime logistical constraints on Zelensky’s side, while others saw it as a slight to Polish‑Ukrainian ties.