Poland Marks 85th Anniversary of WWII Outbreak

On September 1, Poland commemorated the 85th anniversary of the outbreak of World War II with solemn ceremonies across the nation, including significant events at Westerplatte and Wielun, the first town bombed by German forces. Prime Minister Donald Tusk and President Andrzej Duda emphasized the ongoing threat posed by Russia's aggression against Ukraine, drawing parallels to the historical invasion by Nazi Germany. Tusk highlighted the importance of a united defense and called for a modernized Polish military, stating 'Never Again Alone' as a commitment to collective security. Duda acknowledged the historical pain but urged Germany to address past grievances, reflecting on the substantial human and infrastructural losses Poland endured during the war. The events served not only to remember the past but also to reinforce Poland's current defense posture in light of contemporary threats. The ceremonies included tributes to the bravery of Polish soldiers who fought despite overwhelming odds during the initial attacks of September 1939.