Discussions between German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Polish President Karol Nawrocki focused on the ongoing war in Ukraine and recent incidents involving drones in Polish airspace, according to a statement released by the German government’s deputy spokesperson, Sebastian Hille. A joint press conference followed the meeting.
Chancellor Merz acknowledged Poland’s significance as a key European neighbor and a close friend of Germany, emphasizing its vital role within the European Union and in reinforcing NATO’s eastern flank. He reiterated the German government’s commitment to fostering reconciliation with Poland, recognizing the historical responsibility stemming from the atrocities of World War II and the subsequent German occupation. The specifics of any discussions regarding President Nawrocki’s previous calls for reparations remained unclear.
Both leaders strongly condemned the recent incursions into Polish airspace attributed to Russia. Chancellor Merz affirmed Germany’s unwavering support for Poland in the face of the threat posed by Russia, highlighting the joint priority of securing the Baltic Sea region and NATO’s eastern borders. Consequently, the German government has extended and expanded its commitment to air policing operations over Poland.
The leaders also reaffirmed their solidarity with Ukraine and underscored the strength of the dynamic economic, social and cultural ties between Poland and Germany.
