Andrij Deszczytsia, the former Ukrainian ambassador to Poland, said he will not return his Ukrainian decoration amid rising tensions between the two nations [1].

The comments come as diplomatic relations between Poland and Ukraine face increasing strain. The stability of this partnership is critical for regional security and the continued coordination of support for Ukraine.

Speaking during an interview on the TVN24 program “Jeden na jeden,” Deszczytsia said he addressed the current crisis in Polish-Ukrainian relations [1, 2]. He said he emphasized the necessity of maintaining a constructive dialogue to resolve the ongoing disputes [1].

Regarding his personal honors, Deszczytsia was explicit about his position. "Swojego odznaczenia nie zwrócę," he said [1], which translates to "I will not return my decoration."

Deszczytsia said the current frictions should not derail the essential cooperation between the two countries [1]. He said open communication remains the only viable path to mitigate the crisis and prevent further diplomatic deterioration [1].

The former ambassador's refusal to return his state honor serves as a personal statement of identity and loyalty, even as he calls for a strategic pivot toward reconciliation [1, 2].

“"Swojego odznaczenia nie zwrócę"”

The public stance of a former high-ranking diplomat highlights the internal friction within the Ukrainian diplomatic corps and its relationship with Poland. By refusing to return his decoration while simultaneously calling for dialogue, Deszczytsia is attempting to balance national loyalty with a pragmatic need to repair a critical strategic alliance.