Addressing an audience outside Hotel De Wereld—where German forces surrendered on May 5, 1945—Tusk contrasted the outbreak of World War II in his native city of Gdańsk with today’s conflict on Europe’s eastern flank.
“This is the third year we mark our victory over the Third Reich under the shadow of Russian aggression against Ukraine. It gives these celebrations an entirely new context,” he said.
Tusk added that the lessons of 80 years ago had not proved timeless, noting that “since February 24, 2022, almost every day of this criminal aggression has borne witness” to the return of “evil.”
“I still remember the ruins of Gdańsk, my hometown, turned to rubble in 1945. I grew up in their shadow. Let us not turn away from the resurgence of evil. The experience of 80 years ago shows that only standing shoulder to shoulder can we overcome it,” he said.
He urged deeper European and transatlantic bonds and “true solidarity between nations and peoples” to defend against threats from “Putin’s Russia.”
“The carefree comfort of Europe is over. Today, we must mobilize around our fundamental values and security,” he said.
“Not long ago, Europe was called an economic giant but a political dwarf and militarily weak. We must again be as strong and as brave as the Polish soldiers who fought on your soil 80 years ago. We owe it to them and future generations.”
The televised address formed part of traditional Liberation Day events, attended by diplomats and veterans, including Captain Eugeniusz “Nead” Niedzielski of Poland’s 1st Armored Division.
Tusk is on an official visit to the Netherlands on Monday for ceremonies marking the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the country from Nazi occupation.
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Source: PAP