Poland’s Nawrocki revives call for German WWII reparations

Polish President Karol Nawrocki has called on Germany to pay reparations for the damage inflicted on Poland during World War II, reviving a politically sensitive issue ahead of the next general election.

Speaking at a ceremony in Gdansk marking the outbreak of World War II, Nawrocki urged Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s government to press Berlin for compensation, saying the issue was important not only for historical justice but also for Poland’s future, Bloomberg reports.

He argued that a firm and united Polish position should include a demand for compensation from Germany, describing the country as both an ally and neighbor.

Nawrocki said any reparations received should be directed toward Poland’s armed forces and defense industry, arguing that this would reduce the need for Warsaw to rely on loans from Western countries and ensure Poland receives what he considers its due.

The German government, however, has repeatedly maintained that the issue of World War II reparations to Poland is closed.

By Sabina Mammadli