In a recent interview with state news agency PAP, Andriy Portnov, a distinguished professor of Ukrainian history at Viadrina European University, discussed the significance of collective historical memory and the current geopolitical landscape's impact on Polish-German relations and European stability.
"One of the most important issues on which a consensus between Poland and Germany is important is ensuring security in Europe," Portnov stressed, underlining the necessity for cooperation in aiding Ukraine's defense against aggression. He highlighted the historical context, noting that "the most terrible and greatest crimes of the Third Reich were committed precisely on the territory of Ukraine, Poland, and Belarus," yet acknowledged that this awareness has not fully permeated German mass consciousness.
Discussing the historical occupation of Ukraine by German forces and the resulting atrocities, Portnov remarked, "The consequences of the occupation of the Ukrainian territory in 1941-1943 were much more tragic for the Ukrainian people." He also referenced Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski's comments on Germany's moral obligations to Poland, suggesting these statements were more targeted at a Polish audience rather than aiming to substantially influence Polish-German relations.
Portnov observed the potential for a "restart" in relations following political changes in Poland, highlighting the broader implications for EU security and the complex dynamics of military support for Ukraine. "One of the most important issues on which the consensus between the two countries is crucial for both sides is the preservation of security within the EU and across the continent," he asserted.
He also touched upon the ironic shift in which Germany and France now lead the push for Ukraine's EU integration, a role initially championed by Poland. "It is somewhat ironic that at one time Poland was the first EU country whose representatives clearly said that they see Ukraine as a full member of the Union," Portnov noted.
Reflecting on the historical backdrop of Polish-German relations and the enduring relevance of World War II memory, Portnov emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue and expert discourse.
"Despite a number of problems... the painstaking work on the Polish-German dialogue remains extremely important," he concluded, advocating for continued efforts to foster understanding and cooperation between Poland and Germany for the sake of European security and solidarity.
Source: PAP