Poland’s PM Tusk Urges Resolution to Political Row With Ukraine Amid Tensions
Escalating Diplomatic Tensions Between Poland and Ukraine
Background of the Dispute
WARSAW, June 21 (Reuters) - A conflict between politicians in Poland and Ukraine is a strategic mistake that will harm both sides, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said on Sunday on X, as he sought to defuse a row sparked by a historical dispute.
Revocation of State Honours
On Friday Polish President Karol Nawrocki stripped Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy of the country's top honour, prompting three former Ukrainian presidents and other senior officials to return their state awards to Poland.
Historical Context: The Order of the White Eagle
Nawrocki decided to revoke the Order of the White Eagle after Zelenskiy angered many in Poland by renaming a Ukrainian army unit after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army, nationalists who massacred Poles during World War Two.
Political Reactions and Statements
Tusk’s Stance as Prime Minister
The pro-European Tusk was re-elected as prime minister in 2023, after leading a coalition that defeated the nationalist Law and Justice party with which Nawrocki is aligned.
Calls for De-escalation
"Wading into a conflict between politicians in Poland and Ukraine is a strategic mistake that will harm both sides: business-wise, geopolitically, and reputationally. And in politics, as we know, a mistake is worse than a crime," Tusk wrote.
"In discussions with my European partners, I strive to minimise losses and reduce tensions. This is no easy task," he added in a post on X.
Reporting Credits
(Reporting by Anna Koper; Editing by Barbara Lewis)
