Poland Commemorates 85th Anniversary of WWII
Poland’s leaders marked the 85th anniversary of Nazi Germany’s invasion by stressing the importance of strong defense amidst the conflict in neighboring Ukraine. President Andrzej Duda led ceremonies alongside German deputy ambassador Robert Rohde in Wielun, the first civilian target of German bombing in 1939.
The brutal German occupation from 1939 to 1945 resulted in the deaths of over 6 million Poles, including 3 million Jews, and extensive damage to the country’s infrastructure. Duda reiterated calls for German reparations, highlighting the unresolved issue of compensating victims of Nazi atrocities.
While Poland’s current government under Prime Minister Donald Tusk has toned down demands for reparations, Tusk warned against the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and emphasized the need for a united defense against aggression. Poland is actively bolstering its military capabilities to contribute to NATO’s strength and uphold its commitment to defending civilization.
The commemorations serve as a reminder of the country’s resilience in the face of historical traumas and the ongoing efforts to secure peace and security in Europe.