Germany and Poland Deepen Partnership Amid Security, Economic, and Historical Issues

Chancellor Friedrich Merz of Germany and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk convened the 17th German-Polish government consultations on December 1, 2025, underscoring their commitment to deepen bilateral cooperation. The meeting focused on several key areas: security and defense policies, economic collaboration, and joint support for Ukraine in the face of ongoing Russian aggression.

One prominent facet of the talks involved addressing the lingering impact of World War II. While Poland had previously demanded reparations amounting to billions for damages caused by the German occupation, Merz and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier firmly rejected these claims. Unlike the previous right-wing Polish government, Tusk's center-left administration pursues a less aggressive stance on reparations but seeks recognition and aid for approximately 40,000 surviving victims of the occupation, a number steadily dwindling.

Cultural reconciliation also featured prominently, with Germany's Cultural State Minister Weimer preparing to transfer 73 historical parchments and a statue fragment titled 'Head of Saint James the Elder' from Gdansk to Polish representatives, symbolizing goodwill and shared heritage.

The security alliance between Germany and Poland has been fortified by the Russian threat, highlighted by a joint visit to Kyiv involving Merz, Tusk, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, demonstrating firm solidarity with Ukraine.

However, tensions persist. Poland continues to feel marginalized in current Ukraine peace negotiations, leading to discontent within Polish media. Border control issues between the two countries remain sensitive, with Poland having extended migration-related border controls until April 2026, although open confrontations over this matter have decreased.

In sum, the consultations revealed a strengthened yet complex partnership. Chancellor Merz emphasized mutual commitment to security and economic cooperation, while Prime Minister Tusk sought a balance between historical grievances and forward-looking collaboration. Both leaders appear eager to continue building on this foundation amid challenging geopolitical dynamics.