German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said Germany plans to provide aid to surviving victims of the Nazi occupation of Poland during World War II.
“Germany is aware of the gravity of its guilt, of its responsibility for the millions of victims of the German occupation and of the mission that results from it,” Scholz said in Warsaw at a press conference with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk after joint consultations with the government.
Germany stands behind its historical responsibility, without any ifs or buts, he said.
“The situation of elderly victims is of great concern to us and we will also take measures in this regard.”
Scholz did not say when or how much compensation would be paid to the approximately 40,000 victims of the German occupation of Poland who are still alive.
Responsibility for the past also means responsibility for the common future, Scholz continued. “Poland’s security is also Germany’s security.”
Cooperation in the field of security and defense must be expanded in a targeted manner, he added. Together, Germany and Poland stand firmly on the side of the Ukrainians, the chancellor said.
