For his outstanding contribution to strengthening international cooperation and building ties between the Republic of Poland and other nations, Polish President Andrzej Duda has awarded Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov, Head of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, one of the highest honors Poland can bestow on a foreign national — the Gold Officer's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland.
In addition, Major General Vadym Skibitskyi, Deputy Head of DIU, was presented with the Cavalier's Cross of the Order of Merit.
Colonel Dominik Duda, Deputy Director of Poland's Intelligence Agency, presented the honors on behalf of the Polish President, who emphasized the importance of the Polish-Ukrainian partnership in resisting russian aggression and praised Ukraine's military and intelligence efforts in safeguarding European collective security.
"I sincerely thank President Andrzej Duda for his trust and for recognizing the deep bond between our nations. This war is about freedom — about the principles and values of a united Europe. Only together can we defeat the russian horde and overcome this enduring threat to both Poland and Ukraine. Our peoples will always stand united in the struggle for a peaceful, war-free future," said Kyrylo Budanov.
The Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland is among the country's most prestigious awards. It is granted to foreign citizens who have made significant contributions to international cooperation and Poland's global partnerships.
Past recipients include: