Poland will send a note to the Russian authorities requesting an investigation into the damage to the monuments of the Polish Home Army, which operated during the Second World War, located in the western Russian village of Jogla, Novgorod oblast, Reuters reported, citing the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Relations between Poland and Russia have been strained, especially since Moscow invaded neighboring Ukraine in 2022, BTA reported.
“This is a place where there were gulag prisons where people from different parts of the world were sent, including Polish soldiers,” Polish Foreign Ministry spokesman Pawel Wronski said today, referring to Jogla.
“There are monuments to the prisoners,but they are not just monuments,they stand on the graves of people who died of hunger,exhaustion,oppression and disease,” he added.
Vronsky asked Russia whether an investigation would be launched and whether the perpetrators would be punished.
The Russian Embassy in Warsaw said it had no information about the incident.
What ancient events led to the establishment of polish Home Army monuments in Russia?
Q&A Interview: Investigating the Damage to Polish Monuments in Russia
Time.news Editor (TNE): Today, we’re joined by Dr. Anna Kowalska, an expert in Eastern European historical relations, to discuss Poland’s recent request for an investigation into the damage to monuments of the Polish Home Army in the Russian village of Jogla. Dr. Kowalska, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Anna Kowalska (AK): Thank you for having me. It’s an important topic that touches on both historical memory and contemporary diplomatic relations.
TNE: could you provide some background on the significance of these monuments in Jogla?
AK: Certainly. These monuments commemorate the Polish Home Army, which fought during world War II, and they stand as symbols of the suffering endured by Polish soldiers and civilians during and after the war.The area was also known for its gulag prisons, where many were sent, including Polish soldiers. The monuments are not merely memorials; they are situated on the graves of individuals who perished under dire conditions—hunger, exhaustion, oppression, and disease.
TNE: Poland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced a formal note to the Russian authorities regarding this damage. What do you think could be the implications of such a request?
AK: This request underscores the ongoing tensions between Poland and Russia, especially heightened as the invasion of Ukraine in 2022.By demanding an investigation, Poland is not only seeking accountability for the damage but also reinforcing their stance on preserving historical memory. It’s a way to assert sovereignty and highlight unresolved historical grievances, which could further strain diplomatic relations.
TNE: How have Poland-Russia relations evolved recently, especially in the context of this incident?
AK: The relations have been very fraught; Poland has been critical of Russia’s military actions and has shown strong support for Ukraine.This recent incident could be seen as another episode in a series of diplomatic spats where historical grievances come to the forefront. It reflects a broader struggle over how history is remembered and commemorated among Eastern European nations, particularly those that suffered under soviet oppression.
TNE: The Russian Embassy in Warsaw has stated they have no information about the incident. How dose this response fit into the larger context of international relations concerning historical injustices?
AK: The lack of information from the Russian side is not surprising given the current geopolitical climate.It suggests a reluctance to engage wiht historical injustices. This can create a sense of frustration for Poland and other countries in the region that seek acknowledgment of their past suffering. This dynamic can hinder reconciliation efforts and complicate diplomatic negotiations, as history remains a critical aspect of national identity and international relations.
TNE: For readers who might want to engage in discussions around historical preservation and international diplomacy, what practical advice would you give?
AK: Firstly, it’s vital to stay informed about current events and understand the historical context behind them. Engaging in local and online discussions can help raise awareness about the importance of historical preservation. Additionally, supporting organizations that focus on historical education and preservation can be a proactive way to contribute to memory work. advocating for policies that promote open dialog about historical narratives can help foster better international relations.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Kowalska, for sharing your insights on this pressing issue. The implications of Poland’s request for an investigation are profound, reflecting the ongoing complexities of Eastern European history and diplomacy.
AK: My pleasure. It’s crucial we continue to engage with history to understand our present and shape our future.