Polish President Karol Nawrocki has sparked controversy by stating that the country must be prepared to defend its western border with Germany. The remarks were made during an event commemorating the 1918 uprising against German rule, where Nawrocki emphasized the need to preserve Poland’s national identity and independence. He noted that Poland has historically been subject to “severe German imperialism” and that efforts were made to suppress Polish culture and national heritage.

Nawrocki’s comments drew criticism from Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski, who argued that as long as Germany remains a member of the European Union and NATO, it poses no threat to Poland’s borders. Prime Minister Donald Tusk also echoed this sentiment, characterizing the remarks as reflective of a deeper dispute over values, security, and sovereignty.

The right-wing opposition Law and Justice party, which supports Nawrocki, has long been critical of Germany’s influence in Poland. In 2023, party leader Jaroslaw Kaczynski warned of a “German plan” to undermine Polish sovereignty, and has accused Prime Minister Tusk of leading an effort to destroy Poland’s independence.

The tensions between Poland and Germany are rooted in historical grievances, including the brutal Nazi occupation of Poland during World War II. Recently, Warsaw has demanded up to $1.3 trillion in reparations from Berlin, which has been rejected on the grounds that the matter has been settled.

The exchange between Nawrocki and Sikorski highlights the ongoing debate over Poland’s relationship with its western neighbor. As Poland continues to navigate its position within the European Union and NATO, the country’s leadership will face challenges in balancing its desire for independence with its obligations to its international partners. The dispute also underscores the complex historical context that continues to shape Polish-German relations, and the need for diplomatic efforts to address these lingering tensions.