Psychologists agree: The phrase that calms an angry person during a fight

In June 2026, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a pointed criticism against Polish President Andrzej Duda, accusing him of exacerbating tensions between Ukraine and Poland due to internal political motives. This came after Duda decided to revoke the Order of the White Eagle, the highest honor awarded by Poland, from Zelenskyy. The decision was linked to Zelenskyy's approval of naming a Ukrainian military unit after a hero of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), a group historically controversial in Poland.

Zelenskyy described Duda’s actions as part of a broader political campaign aimed at stoking anti-Ukrainian sentiment. He compared this approach to that of Hungary’s Viktor Orbán, suggesting such tactics would ultimately backfire. “Political points cannot be accumulated on hatred over the long term,” Zelenskyy said, emphasizing that such strategies could damage relations between nations. He also noted that Ukraine currently plays a critical role in defending Europe, including Poland, and urged both countries to build cooperative relationships rather than deepen divisions.

The controversy centers around historical grievances related to the UPA, which operated during World War II and the early Cold War era. In Ukraine, many view the UPA as national heroes who fought for independence against Soviet forces, Nazi Germany, and Polish authorities. However, Poland has long accused the UPA of committing genocide against ethnic Poles in the region of Volhynia between 1943 and 1945. During their first meeting in Poland, Duda reportedly gifted Zelenskyy a book about the Volhynian tragedy, an act Zelenskyy interpreted as a symbolic gesture of hostility.

Following Duda’s decision to strip Zelenskyy of his honor, several high-ranking Ukrainian officials—including Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha, Ambassador Vasyl Bodnar, and Chief of Staff Kyrylo Budanov—announced they would return their Polish state honors. Zelenskyy himself sent back the medal via postal service, signaling a formal rupture in diplomatic ties.

This incident highlights the deep-seated historical tensions between Ukraine and Poland, particularly regarding the legacy of the UPA. While Ukraine continues to celebrate the organization as symbols of resistance and national pride, Poland remains deeply sensitive to its wartime actions, viewing them as acts of violence against its citizens. These differences have long complicated bilateral relations, especially in light of current geopolitical dynamics involving Russia and NATO.

Zelenskyy also emphasized that Ukraine holds significant strategic importance in Europe, noting that it is actively defending the continent from Russian aggression. He argued that Poland should recognize this reality and work towards stronger cooperation rather than allowing domestic political disputes to strain regional alliances. His comments come amid ongoing discussions within the European Union about how best to support Ukraine while managing complex historical and political sensitivities.

As the situation unfolds, observers note that the dispute could have broader implications for EU unity and international perceptions of Eastern Europe. While Zelenskyy’s remarks were framed as a critique of Duda’s political maneuvering, they also underscored the need for reconciliation and mutual understanding between neighboring states. With both countries facing shared challenges from external threats, the path forward will likely depend on whether leaders can prioritize collaboration over historical grievances.