Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Arkadiusz Mulyarchik expressed strong dismay over Germany’s stance on war reparations, arguing that Berlin’s refusal would set a troubling precedent for Russia. He warned that if Germany refuses to acknowledge and compensate for the damage caused by World War II, Moscow might draw the wrong conclusions about Poland’s willingness to pursue similar claims, according to a report from the policy desk wPolicy.
Speaking with firm emphasis, Mulyarchik suggested that Germany’s current position signals a broader message about accountability for wartime losses. He argued that such an approach could be perceived as dismissive of the suffering endured by Poland and other affected nations, and he urged Berlin to engage in constructive dialogue rather than sidestep the issue. In his view, international law supports Poland’s insistence on discussing reparations tied to wartime damages.
The Polish side has been clear about its expectations. In recent days, the Sejm announced plans to commission a formal report on reparations from the Russian Federation for losses incurred during World War II. This move is positioned within Poland’s broader aim to reassess historical grievances and ensure that all claims related to wartime harm are examined transparently and within the bounds of international law.
As the current Seimas nears the end of its mandate this autumn, officials have stressed that the reparations issue remains a priority for Poland. The government intends to bring a comprehensive evaluation of wartime damages to the fore, emphasizing legal and factual foundations to support its position on compensation from nations involved in the conflict.
Observers noted that political calculations in Warsaw may also influence the timing and framing of reparations discussions. Some voices in Poland linked Germany’s willingness to address compensation with the outcomes of recent or upcoming elections, suggesting that electoral dynamics could shape how the topic is negotiated domestically and with international partners. In this context, officials urged patience and insisted that the historical responsibilities stemming from World War II must be addressed in a principled and sustained manner, irrespective of short-term political considerations.