Daily and weekly newspapers emphasize that the topic although politically sensitive, it remains crucial to rebuilding trust between the two countries.
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Cynical avoidance of decisions after Donald Tusk's visit
“Sueddeutsche Zeitung” doesn't beat around the bush. According to the newspaper Berlin's refusal to allocate further funds for Polish victims of Nazismis an “example of cynicism”. Journalist Viktoria Grossmann describes that despite Donald Tusk's talks with Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Germany once again limited itself only to announcing “exploration of possibilities” of support.
According to “SZ” it's a game of time – convenient for both Berlin and Warsaw, which are afraid of the reaction of right-wing circles, which will consider any smaller amount as a failure. Grossmann also reminds that solutions have existed for a long time, and the Polish-German Reconciliation Foundation could transfer the money without unnecessary complications.
Read also: Polish-German consultations in Berlin. Merz emphasizes partnership and memory
“Der Spiegel”: Perfect conditions, no results
The weekly “Der Spiegel” points out that consultations ended without “spectacular results”. Although the leaders' official declarations sounded conciliatory, relations remain devoid of energy.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz
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Columnists Jan Puhl and Severin Weiland remind us that After the change of government, there were ideal conditions in Warsaw for improving relations. Meanwhile, polls show historically low level of sympathy between Poles and Germans. According to “Spiegel”, this is also a problem pressure from extreme groups on both sides, which is hindering the political thaw.
There are no prospects for improving Polish-German relations
“Tageszeitung” assesses the situation even more harshly: Polish-German relations “have not been this bad for years.” Commentator Gabriele Lesser criticizes the long-term instrumentalization of history by the right, especially PiS, but also notes that the current Tusk government does not oppose this narrative strongly enough.
This – according to “TAZ” – it closes the way to real improvement in relations and perpetuates mutual distrust.
Actions count, not words
On ARD television, commentator Jacek Tyblewski emphasizes that announcements of support for Poland in becoming independent from Russia and the use of Russian assets to help Ukraine “sound promising”, but Poles have heard similar declarations before. According to him, Germany can rebuild trust if it takes specific actions: from supporting Polish language learning to solving the issue of a memorial site for Polish victims and additional benefits for war survivors.
“Words are not enough – actions are needed” – sums up the commentator.
