The German government has reiterated its rejection of Polish President Karol Nawrocki’s demands for reparations related to German actions during World War II, ahead of his upcoming visit to Berlin on Tuesday. Instead, officials are emphasizing a focus on bolstering security guarantees for Poland.
Government’s Special Representative for Polish Affairs, Knut Abraham, stated that the issue of reparations is legally closed, according to reports from the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland. While acknowledging Germany’s enduring responsibility for the atrocities committed against Polish citizens during the war, Abraham stressed the need to demonstrate continued commitment to confronting this historical responsibility.
A proposed initiative to memorialize Polish victims of wartime aggression and occupation is being considered for the site of the former Kroll Opera House in Berlin. This location, Abraham elaborated, would offer a significant symbolic gesture of remembrance for the unprecedented wartime crimes.
In light of heightened security concerns posed by Russia, Abraham advocated for prioritizing security guarantees within the framework of their shared NATO membership over discussions regarding reparations. He argued that Germany’s commitment to Poland requires a contemporary expression – one that recognizes a shift from a historical position where Poland was a victim of German actions, to a current situation where Germany and Poland stand in mutual support. This support, he stated, must be demonstrated through both military and financial means.
The planned message to President Nawrocki centers on the principle that strengthening Poland’s security directly contributes to Germany’s own security, potentially through financial assistance, weapons systems, or the deployment of German armed forces units.
