The state of Hesse has decided to honor Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy with its highest award. On December 1, 2026, Hessian Premier Boris Rhein (CDU) will present him with the Wilhelm Leuschner Medal. The Hessian State Chancellery announced this on October 28.
Reason for the Award
The medal is named after Wilhelm Leuschner, a Hessian politician and member of the resistance against the Nazi regime. It is traditionally awarded to individuals who have made a special contribution to the protection of freedom, democracy, and human dignity.
According to Rhein, Zelenskyy is one of the most prominent international political figures of our time. His tireless struggle, particularly for Ukraine's territorial integrity, has made him a symbol of resistance against military aggression far beyond Europe.
The Hessian Premier also emphasized that the Ukrainian president's diplomatic efforts have significantly helped strengthen the awareness of shared values and solidarity in Europe.
An Award for the Entire Ukrainian People
Rhein stressed that the award is addressed not only to Zelenskyy personally, but to the entire Ukrainian people. For nearly five years, Ukrainians, who have become victims of Russia's brutal and illegal war, have been defending not only their country's sovereignty and the lives of its citizens, but also Europe and European values.
"Hesse stands with Ukraine. Our solidarity is an expression of the shared conviction that a country's future cannot be determined by military force," Rhein stated. He described the award decision as a clear signal of continued support for Ukraine from the federal state.
Where and When the Ceremony Will Take Place
Traditionally, the Wilhelm Leuschner Medal is awarded on Hesse's Constitution Day — December 1. According to the State Chancellery, Zelenskyy is expected to attend the ceremony in person at Eberbach Monastery in Eltville (Rheingau-Taunus district). However, given the war in Ukraine, it remains unclear whether this will be possible.
What This Means for Ukrainians in Germany
Many Ukrainians who found refuge here after the start of the full-scale invasion live in Hesse, particularly in Frankfurt, Wiesbaden, Kassel, and Darmstadt. Such a decision by the state government is a clear symbol that support for Ukraine remains on the political agenda in the region, despite war fatigue and intense debates in Germany regarding refugee assistance.
Based on materials from tagesschau.de / hessenschau (28.10.2026).