The head of Ukrpost, Igor Smelyansky, explained that logistical challenges, including customs barriers, led President Volodymyr Zelensky to send a state order using Nova Poshta, rather than via Ukrpost. This choice was highlighted by the photos released by Zelensky, showcasing the typical branding associated with Nova Poshta, including their recognizable logo on the parcel.
According to Smelyansky, the decision to utilize Nova Poshta may have been influenced by the colors of the Polish national flag, as the company’s branding is also red and white. He humorously suggested that it was decided to return the state award in colors that were fitting.
He also speculated about potential legal restrictions regarding the shipment of state awards through postal services. Smelyansky noted, “It’s possible that the lawyers at the Office of the President assessed the situation and found that sending state awards through Ukrpost is strictly prohibited by law and regulations. Nova Poshta operates as an express carrier, not a postal service, which could be why this option was chosen.”
Furthermore, Smelyansky pointed out that delivery to Poland has been complicated for Ukrpost due to customs restrictions, forcing the company to find alternative routes through other countries like Hungary and Slovakia. Express delivery services do not encounter similar challenges, allowing for smoother transit.
“Our deliveries in Poland are handled through Poczta Polska, and there may have been doubts about their capability. Over the last two months, Ukrpost vehicles have been blocked by Polish customs, necessitating the rerouting of our transit operations around Poland. However, our customers remain unaware, as we have established alternative pathways through other nations,” Smelyansky emphasized.
He concluded with a light-hearted remark that if prominent Ukrainian officials, such as former President Leonid Kuchma or the head of the Office of the President Kyrylo Budanov, personally requested assistance from Ukrpost, the company would be willing to make an exception.
Context
- On May 26, Zelensky awarded the Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine with the honorary title “named after the Heroes of the UPA.” This move sparked criticism in Poland, including from MP Nawrocki, who claimed it provided ammunition for Russian propaganda.
- Following that, disputes arose within Ukrainian and Polish political circles. However, on June 19, Nawrocki reported that he indeed rescinded Zelensky’s order. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk criticized the president’s decision, stating that it only served Moscow’s interests.
- Amid the revocation of Zelensky’s order, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andriy Sibiga announced his refusal of a Polish honor – the Commander Cross with Star of the Order “For Merit to Poland.” The next day, the Head of the Office of the President Kyrylo Budanov also declined the Golden Officer’s Cross of the Order, while the Ukrainian Ambassador in Poland Vasyl Bodnar renounced the Cavalry Cross.
- On June 20, Zelensky announced that he would return the order to Nawrocki via postal service.
- Subsequently, former Presidents of Ukraine – Leonid Kuchma, Viktor Yushchenko, and Petro Poroshenko – also declined the Order of the White Eagle.
