Warsaw, October 24, 2024 – The Europe Today: Poland will no longer demand reparations from Germany for Nazi crimes committed during World War II, Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski announced. The decision marks a shift from the previous conservative government’s stance, which had sought around $1.5 trillion in compensation. Sikorski emphasized that Warsaw and Berlin are now allies, united in addressing contemporary security threats, particularly from Russia.
Speaking on Polish television, Sikorski explained that Poland is not pursuing reparations but is instead seeking a symbolic gesture from Germany to acknowledge its moral responsibility. He suggested that Germany could support remaining survivors of the Nazi occupation and erect a memorial in Berlin to honor the tragic events.
Sikorski highlighted the importance of cooperation between Poland and Germany, especially in countering perceived threats from Russia. Despite Poland’s previous reparations claims, both countries, as NATO members, are focusing on strengthening their alliance to face common security challenges.
The German government has consistently maintained that the reparations issue was resolved legally in past agreements, including a 1953 waiver by Poland and the 1990 treaty on German reunification.
