In a startling remark made on the 80th anniversary of the Warsaw Uprising, KO politician Patryk Jaskulski suggested that Poland should refrain from seeking WWII reparations from Germany. His reasoning? Fear that Germany might respond by claiming Western Pomerania, a region incorporated into Poland post-war.
Jaskulski’s comments came amid a backdrop of Poland’s evolving stance on reparations. During a visit by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in early July, it became evident that the current Polish government is unlikely to pursue reparations for WWII damages, with the issue appearing to be swept under the rug for now.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that discussions on redressing past wrongs should foster positive relations rather than ignite diplomatic conflicts. Tusk acknowledged that from Germany’s legal perspective, the reparations issue is considered settled.
Nevertheless, the topic remains significant for many Poles. A recent SW Research poll for rp.pl revealed that 58.2% of Poles believe their country should demand reparations from Germany, while only 20% oppose the idea. The issue is strongly advocated by the current opposition, notably the Law and Justice (PiS) party.
On the anniversary of the Warsaw Uprising, the reparations debate resurfaces poignantly. The capital, devastated by the German occupiers, was painstakingly rebuilt after 1945, earning it the moniker “the city that survived its own death.” PiS leader Jarosław Kaczyński underscored the importance of justice and equality for Poland, critiquing Germany’s reluctance to fully address its wartime actions.
Jaskulski’s remarks, aired on Polsat News, were met with surprise. He contended that initiating reparations discussions could provoke Germany to revisit border issues, particularly concerning Western Pomerania, acquired by Poland through post-WWII agreements at Yalta and Potsdam, and reaffirmed in 1990.