Polish president's office explains revoking Zelensky's award while Mussolini's, Schroeder's stands

Poland’s president has stripped Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky of the Order of the White Eagle, the country’s highest military honor, citing a dispute over the historical status of a WWII-era Ukrainian army unit. The move follows Zelensky’s decision to award the same unit a medal for its role in fighting Nazi Germany, which Poland argues was part of a Soviet-led formation that also collaborated with the USSR.

The *New York Times* and *BBC* frame the conflict as a test of Poland’s influence in Ukraine, while *The Guardian* and *politico.eu* emphasize the broader implications for regional unity. The *Kyiv Independent* notes that Poland has not revoked similar honors bestowed on former German chancellor Gerhard Schröder or Italian dictator Benito Mussolini, raising questions about consistency.

Watch for Zelensky’s response and whether Poland’s government clarifies its stance on other controversial historical figures. The dispute could also prompt further scrutiny of Poland’s diplomatic strategy amid ongoing war efforts, particularly if Ukraine seeks alternative military or financial support.