During a Berlin visit, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski spoke with German Chancellor Annalena Baerbock about encouraging creative approaches to addressing war losses and potential compensation. The remarks were made at a conference in which Baerbock participated alongside Sikorski, underscoring the importance of memory and dialogue in shaping future Polish-German relations.
Sikorski stressed that while historical issues will remain a part of the bilateral narrative for years to come, the focus is on the path forward and practical measures that can strengthen ties. He highlighted Baerbock’s awareness of how the memory of wartime victims resonates within Polish society and noted her consistent public statements on this topic.
One topic on Sikorski’s agenda was the German-Polish House in Berlin, envisioned as a site dedicated to commemorating Polish wartime losses and facilitating ongoing exchange. He described it as a symbolic venue for remembrance and dialogue between the two nations.
The Polish minister reiterated his intention to urge Berlin to explore ways to address historical claims, including compensation for war damages. He referenced the broader goal of a good, trusting bilateral relationship as a foundation for expanding cooperation with other European Union partners.
Sikorski did not shy away from mentioning the Weimar Triangle—an angle both sides see potential in revitalizing after a period of limited activity. He indicated that this format could play a pivotal role in future European cooperation, including discussions related to Ukraine and European security.
In addressing the Ukraine conflict, Sikorski stated that forcibly changing borders under the pretext of aiding cultural kin is unacceptable, particularly after two world wars in Europe. He described the rebuilding of any new European empire as an untenable project and suggested that the Weimar Triangle could offer constructive ideas for the EU’s future.
The Polish minister expressed optimism about recent discussions and anticipated another meeting at the same level in Paris, where Ukraine’s situation would be a central issue. He framed support for Ukraine as a strategic investment in Europe’s own security.
The Weimar Triangle, formed in 1991, is a cooperative framework linking Poland, France, and Germany. Sikorski and Baerbock also touched on security concerns involving Poland and the Baltic states, with Baerbock reaffirming that a strong Europe requires a robust German-Polish friendship and enduring trust between Berlin and Warsaw.
Baerbock’s remarks at the Berlin press conference with Sikorski emphasized shared commitment to Ukraine and the ongoing need to support its struggle for freedom for as long as necessary. She noted that a forthcoming conference on Ukraine’s reconstruction would take place in Berlin in June and stressed Poland’s early recognition of Russia’s threats, highlighting how Putin’s actions affect neighboring populations.
According to Baerbock, the security of Poland and the Baltic states is inseparable from Europe’s broader security, a view she described as central to NATO allies’ continued cooperation. The talks also touched on Middle East developments and the humane imperative to free hostages and ease civilian suffering in Gaza, with Baerbock advocating for concerted, tangible action.
The German foreign minister concluded that a resilient Europe will depend on a living German-Polish friendship and deep cross-border trust as it evolves eastward in the coming years. The discussion also covered the broader relationship between Poland and Germany, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to constructive engagement within the European and transatlantic communities.
Sikorski characterized European, democratic Germany as a trusted ally and expressed hope that his Berlin visit would mark a meaningful step toward normalizing Polish-German relations. He emphasized a willingness to cooperate across bilateral channels as well as within European and international policy forums, while acknowledging that differences in national interests will persist, yet should be approached without confrontation and with mutual listening.
Both leaders stressed the importance of resuming regular intergovernmental consultations and restoring steady diplomatic dynamics. The discussions highlighted how memory, security, and shared values continue to shape a cooperative path forward for Poland and Germany, with implications for their roles within the European Union and NATO.
In closing, observers noted that while questions about compensation for wartime loss remain a sensitive topic, the Berlin talks laid groundwork for ongoing dialogue. The outcome will depend on sustained action by the Polish Foreign Ministry and continued engagement from Berlin, beyond ceremonial statements and press conferences, as policymakers translate words into concrete policy steps.
Source attribution: ongoing coverage of Polish-German diplomacy as reported by contemporary outlets.