Poland commemorates 85 years since Nazi invasion of 1939
- Ceremonies were held in Poland to mark the 85th anniversary of the Nazi invasion that began World War II.
- President Duda called for reparations from Germany while emphasizing the importance of remembering the past.
- The events highlighted the ongoing need for dialogue and reconciliation between Poland and Germany.
On September 1, 2024, Poland commemorated the 85th anniversary of the Nazi invasion that marked the beginning of World War II. Ceremonies were held in Wielun, the first civilian target of the German bombing, where President Andrzej Duda emphasized the importance of remembering the past while calling for reparations from Germany. The attack on Wielun resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people, highlighting the devastating impact of the invasion on Polish society. At the Westerplatte peninsula, Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz honored fallen soldiers by laying wreaths and participating in a memorial roll call. Tusk drew parallels between the historical invasion and the current conflict in Ukraine, stressing the need for a united defense against aggression. He asserted that Poland is committed to building a modern and strong military to ensure national security and contribute to NATO's collective defense. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock expressed a desire for improved relations between Poland and Germany, acknowledging the historical context while advocating for friendship. The discussions surrounding reparations have been contentious, with Poland's previous government demanding $1.3 trillion in damages, while the current administration seeks a more conciliatory approach to compensation. Duda reiterated that while forgiveness is important, the issue of compensation for the damages caused by the war remains unresolved. The commemoration served as a reminder of the past's lingering pain and the ongoing need for dialogue and reconciliation between the two nations.