Poland News

Holocaust survivors gathered on Monday to mark the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the Nazi concentration camp in Poland. Survivors Tova Friedman, 86, Leon Weintraub, 99, Marian Turski, 98, and Janina Iwanska, 94, shared their poignant recollections during a ceremony attended by world leaders. During the commemoration, attendees paid tribute by placing candles at the 'death wall' outside Block 11, a site notorious for the execution of thousands of prisoners by SS officers. According to historical records, approximately 1.1 million people, primarily Jews, were murdered at the Auschwitz complex, making it the largest documented mass execution site in history. "Today, we reflect not only on the lives lost but on the resilience of those who survived," stated a representative of the event’s organizers. The gathering aimed to ensure that these harrowing memories are not forgotten, emphasizing the importance of Holocaust education for future generations.

On January 27, Gary Sokolov made a poignant visit to Auschwitz as part of a documentary airing on Sky History, marking the 80th anniversary of the camp's liberation. The trip fulfills a dying wish of his father, Lali Sokolov, the camp's tattooist, who expressed regret for not returning to apologize to the victims he could not save. Gary recalled being overwhelmed by horror while walking through the camp, stating, “It was way beyond my expectation of how horrific it was.” Lali Sokolov's incredible survival story, immortalized in the bestselling book "The Tattooist of Auschwitz," reveals how he bonded with guards to communicate with his wife, Gita, and navigate the atrocities of the Holocaust. Gary aims to keep his parents' legacy alive, emphasizing the importance of educating younger generations about these historical events. He noted a rise in interest around the Auschwitz memorial following the release of the book and associated miniseries, highlighting that “what his parents’ story is doing to help remember is an amazing thing,” as global anti-Semitism remains a pressing concern.

Gary Sokolov, son of Lali Sokolov, the famed "Tattooist of Auschwitz," has made an emotional pilgrimage to the Auschwitz concentration camp on the 80th anniversary of its liberation. This visit fulfills his father’s dying wish to return and apologize to the lives he could not save. Despite enduring four decades of failed attempts due to the weight of the memories, Gary finally entered the camp, overwhelmed by the horrific reality that unfolded there during World War II. His experience, filmed for a Sky History documentary, highlighted the profound impact of his family's past on his identity. Lali Sokolov, who tattooed numbers onto prisoners’ arms during the Holocaust, had a remarkable survival story involving love and resilience. He met and inked the forearm of his future wife, Gita, after being rescued from a death cart shortly after arriving at Auschwitz. Despite their optimistic outlook after the war and the challenges they faced, Gary learned detailed accounts of their struggles only recently through the book "The Tattooist of Auschwitz." He reflects on his parents' legacy and the importance of educating younger generations about the atrocities of the Holocaust. With rising global anti-Semitism, Gary emphasizes the need to maintain awareness of these historical events and the stories of individuals like his parents, who, although small in stature, have left an indelible impact on the world. The documentary "The Tattooist’s Son: Journey to Auschwitz" premiered on Sky History, bringing attention to the historical significance of his family's experience.

January 27, 2025, marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the site of history's largest industrial-scale genocide. On this day in 1945, a battalion from the 322nd Infantry Division of the 60th Army of the First Ukrainian Front reached the infamous concentration camp located near the town of Oświęcim in southern Poland. The camp, often referred to by its haunting entrance, known as the "gateway to hell," was a symbol of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust. As the soldiers entered, they were met with a harrowing scene; they faced emaciated survivors, described by commanding officer Anatoly Shapiro as "skeletons of people" dressed in striped uniforms, devoid of shoes and unable to speak. In conjunction with the anniversary, a new publication is shedding light on the topography of Jewish extermination, exploring the tragic history and the physical remnants of the camp. This commemorative effort aims not only to remember those who suffered but also to educate future generations about the horrors of Auschwitz and the Holocaust.

Gary Sokolov, son of Lali Sokolov, known as the "Tattooist of Auschwitz," has made a poignant visit to the infamous concentration camp on the 80th anniversary of its liberation. Lali, who survived the harrowing experiences of Auschwitz during World War II, had often expressed a desire to return to the site to apologize to those he could not save. In a new documentary aired by Sky History, Gary recounts the emotional challenges he faced as he prepared for this journey. Despite multiple failed attempts over the years due to overwhelming memories, he finally took the step to walk through the gates that read "Arbeit macht frei"—”work sets you free”—the same path where his parents met in 1942. The visit was a harrowing experience for Gary, who described it as “way beyond my expectation of how horrific it was.” As he walked through the camp, he confronted the stark realities of his family’s past. The documentary sheds light on the resilience of his parents, who maintained an optimistic outlook even in the oppressive environment of Auschwitz. Lali Sokolov's story, portrayed in the bestselling book "The Tattooist of Auschwitz," highlights not only survival but also the power of love and hope amidst horror. Gary, who grew up unaware of the full extent of his parents' experiences, expressed how the trip has brought him closer to their legacy. Gary hopes that continuing to share his parents' story serves as a crucial reminder of the Holocaust and inspires awareness among younger generations, especially in the context of rising anti-Semitism.

On January 27, 2023, survivors of Auschwitz came together to honor the 80th anniversary of the concentration camp's liberation by the Red Army. The poignant commemoration took place at the infamous Birkenau extermination camp, where 1.1 million people lost their lives during the Holocaust. Dwindling in numbers, the survivors shared powerful testimonies of their experiences amidst a gathering that included world leaders and European royalty. Leon Weintraub, 99, the oldest survivor present, expressed a crucial message: "We were stripped of all humanity." Tova Friedman, who survived the horrors of the genocide as a young child, warned of the perils of intolerance and antisemitism, which she described as a troubling sign of societal decay. Polish President Andrzej Duda pledged Poland's commitment to preserving the memory of death camps on its soil, underscoring the importance of remembrance. Echoing this sentiment, Piotr Cywinski, director of the Auschwitz museum, emphasized that memory is essential to understanding history and preventing future atrocities. During the ceremony, British King Charles III made history as the first reigning monarch to visit Auschwitz, visibly moved as he honored the victims. He highlighted the necessity of remembering "the evils of the past" to foster a more compassionate world. This day also marked International Holocaust Memorial Day, reminding attendees of the ongoing dangers of Holocaust denial and the need for continued vigilance against hatred and intolerance.

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Polish President Andrzej Duda emphasized that gas flows from Russia to Western Europe should never be resumed, even if a peace agreement is reached between Russia and Ukraine. Duda stated that the Nord Stream gas pipelines, which have been inactive since 2022, should be dismantled to prevent countries like Germany from reinstating Russian gas supplies to alleviate their economic struggles. Duda's remarks come as European nations face pressure from businesses to revive ties with Russia despite ongoing economic sanctions. He highlighted the potential threats posed by the Nord Stream pipelines not only to Ukraine but also to Poland, Slovakia, and other Central European nations, describing them as risks to both energy security and economic stability. During his interview with the BBC, Duda also called for Ukraine's involvement in any peace negotiations, referencing historical precedents where agreements were made without adequate representation of affected nations. He denounced any outcome that would validate Russia's territorial gains in Ukraine, characterizing such an event as a violation of international law. As the political landscape shifts with upcoming federal elections in Germany, Duda remains committed to ensuring that the international community does not permit Russia to maintain control over occupied territories. He expressed confidence in U.S. involvement under President Donald Trump as crucial for regional stability.

On January 27, 2025, the world commemorates the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the site of the largest industrial mass murder in history. The Nazi concentration camp, located near the town of Oświęcim in southern Poland, was liberated by a battalion of the 322nd Infantry Division of the Red Army's 60th Army during the assault of the first Ukrainian front. As the soldiers entered the vast complex of Auschwitz, Commander Anatoly Shapiro described a harrowing scene. Survivors, frail and skeletal, emerged wearing striped uniforms, their bare feet exposed to the chilling cold. They were unable to speak or even lift their heads, a testament to the unimaginable suffering they endured. In conjunction with this significant anniversary, a new book explores the topography of Jewish extermination, shedding light on the historical and geographical contexts of the Holocaust. The work aims to provide insights into the events that took place at Auschwitz-Birkenau, famously known for its "Gates of Hell," where rail tracks led countless victims to their fate. As the world reflects on this dark chapter of history, the importance of remembrance and education remains paramount to ensure that such atrocities are never repeated.

Poland's Prime Minister, Donald Tusk, addressed the European Parliament urging EU member states to significantly increase their defense budgets in light of the escalating security challenges, particularly from Russia. Speaking in Strasbourg, Tusk emphasized that Europe must prioritize military spending, echoing U.S. President Donald Trump's call for NATO allies to raise defense expenditures to five percent of their GDP, a figure more than double the current two percent requirement. Highlighting the urgent need for heightened security, Tusk stated, “This is a time when Europe cannot afford to save on security. If Europe is to survive, it needs to be armed.” His remarks come amid ongoing tensions due to Russia's military actions in Ukraine, which have prompted NATO to strengthen its eastern defenses. Poland leads NATO members with a defense budget of 4.12 percent of its GDP, positioning itself as a frontline state against potential Russian aggression. Tusk encouraged other EU nations to take responsibility for their security by adopting a proactive approach rather than relying solely on American support, paraphrasing a famous quote from John F. Kennedy. The call for increased defense spending has met with skepticism from some European leaders, but Tusk's government believes securing the EU's future necessitates immediate actions to bolster military preparedness.

Auschwitz-Birkenau, the notorious Nazi concentration and extermination camp, stands silently as the world prepares to mark the 80th anniversary of its liberation on January 27, 1945. Visitors from across the globe come to the site to honor the memory of the 1.1 million victims who perished there, primarily Jews, along with Poles, Roma, Sinti, Soviet POWs, and others targeted by the Nazi regime. The camp, located in Oswiecim, Poland, is preserved much as it was at the time of its liberation, featuring barracks, walls where executions occurred, and the gas chambers that serve as stark reminders of the atrocities committed. The grounds are still surrounded by barbed wire fences and remnants of the railway tracks that once brought thousands to their deaths. Amidst the somber atmosphere, approximately 50 survivors of the camp and other concentration camps will join state leaders and royalty for commemorative events. The Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum is facilitating these observances, which aim to ensure that the stories of survivors and the lessons of history are not forgotten as the number of living witnesses dwindles. The anniversary serves not only as a remembrance of past horrors but also as a reminder of the importance of education and awareness regarding human rights and the dangers of hatred.

Simon Gronowski, a Holocaust survivor, recalls his harrowing escape from a train bound for Auschwitz-Birkenau, as the 80th anniversary of the camp's liberation approaches. At just 11 years old, Simon, along with his mother Chana, was taken by the Gestapo during the Nazi occupation of Belgium in 1943. After being detained in a transit camp, they were loaded onto a train with other prisoners, unaware of their fate. During the journey, the train came under attack from the Belgian Resistance, allowing a brief moment for escape. As Chana instructed Simon to jump from the train, she was caught by soldiers. "My mother sacrificed herself to ensure my escape," Simon said, highlighting the profound impact of her bravery. Simon survived by fleeing into the woods and later found refuge with a local family. Tragically, his mother was killed in the gas chambers shortly after. Reflecting on current events, Simon expressed concern over the rising popularity of far-right parties and antisemitism in Europe and the United States, urging vigilance against such ideologies that he believes lead to hatred. He will join survivors and international dignitaries, including King Charles and President Macron, for commemorative events marking the liberation of Auschwitz on January 27, 1945, a significant moment in history that witnessed the murder of over a million people, mainly Jews. Today, Simon emphasizes the importance of educating younger generations about the atrocities of the past to safeguard democracy and combat hate.

Poland's Prime Minister, Donald Tusk, emphasized the urgent need for European Union countries to significantly increase their defense spending to meet targets proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. Speaking at the European Parliament in Strasbourg on January 22, 2025, Tusk stated that the survival of the bloc hinges on enhanced military preparedness in response to an aggressive Russia. Tusk's remarks come in the wake of Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine, which has prompted NATO to reinforce its eastern defenses. He highlighted that “this is a time when Europe cannot afford to save on security," arguing for a proactive approach to protect the continent. The current minimum defense spending for NATO members is 2% of GDP, but Trump has called for an increase to 5%. With Poland already leading the charge by allocating 4.12% of its GDP to defense, Tusk urged other EU nations to take initiative rather than relying solely on American support for security. He quoted the late U.S. President John F. Kennedy, suggesting that EU members should ask what they can do for their own security. As the only NATO member sharing a border with both Russia and Ukraine, Poland views itself as a frontline state facing potential threats from Moscow, reinforcing the importance of security in the EU's agenda.

A poignant encounter between Amie Liebowitz, the great-granddaughter of a Holocaust survivor, and Cornelia Stieler, whose grandfather drove trains to Auschwitz, highlights the complexities of confronting a dark family legacy. Amie's grandfather, Ludvig, was separated from his mother, Rachel, who was murdered in the Auschwitz death camp in 1944. Cornelia's grandfather, initially unaware of the horrors he would witness, eventually drove trains transporting victims to their deaths. During a recent interview in Germany, Amie expressed a mixture of emotions as she learned about Cornelia's grandfather's role as a train driver. Cornelia, who studied family therapy, grappled with the implications of her grandfather's actions, questioning when he became complicit in the atrocities. This conversation underscored the emotional burden carried by descendants of those involved in or affected by the Holocaust. The chilling memories of the Holocaust were further brought to light during their exploration of Schönwald, now known as Bojków, Poland. This site witnessed one of the infamous "death marches," where thousands of prisoners were forced to march in brutal conditions as the Soviet Army advanced. Both women emphasized the importance of confronting this painful history to foster understanding and prevent future atrocities. Recent efforts to memorialize the victims have begun to reshape the narrative in Bojków, demonstrating the need for communities to acknowledge their past. A new memorial was unveiled commemorating those who perished during the death march, marking a significant step toward remembrance and reconciliation. As rising antisemitism remains a concern globally, both Amie and Cornelia advocate for continuous dialogue about the past to better understand human behavior and societal change.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk accused Russia on January 15, 2025, of orchestrating potential acts of sabotage that could target airlines globally, including "acts of air terror." This assertion was made during a news conference in Warsaw alongside Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskyy, where Tusk reiterated concerns about Russia’s intentions. Tusk did not provide specific details but emphasized the seriousness of the threats, confirming that fears of potential air terror were not limited to Poland but extended to airlines worldwide. In response, the Kremlin has previously dismissed Western allegations regarding its involvement in sabotage activities across Europe. Western intelligence officials suspect Russian operatives may have been behind plots to deploy incendiary devices on cargo flights to North America, highlighting incidents such as a fire in a German courier facility and another in an English warehouse last year. In addition to these concerns, Azerbaijan recently accused Russia of mistakenly shooting down an Azerbaijani airliner in December 2023, resulting in 38 fatalities. While President Vladimir Putin offered an apology for this "tragic incident," he did not admit direct responsibility. Poland's government, known for its pro-European Union stance, believes that Russia is enacting a hybrid war strategy against Poland and other Western nations in response to their support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict. Furthermore, Poland's foreign minister previously ordered the closure of a Russian consulate due to alleged orchestrated sabotage activities, including various arson incidents.

In a shocking case from Katowice, Poland, a 20-year-old man named Mateusz Hepa confessed in court to killing an 18-year-old girl and then raping her corpse, stating that a coin toss determined his decision to commit the crime. The incident occurred when Hepa approached the victim as she was returning home from a party and lured her to his apartment. After the girl fell asleep, Hepa admitted to brutally beating her before strangling her with a rope. He then wrapped her body in plastic and attempted to conceal it. During his confession, he revealed, "I tossed a coin; it landed on heads, so I killed her." He also mentioned having contemplated killing someone prior to this incident and had been looking for a victim. Hepa's confession left the courtroom in disbelief, especially when he detailed his reasoning for strangulation, stating he preferred it as it would not produce blood. Following the heinous act, he reported the crime to the police, leading to his arrest just hours after the body was discovered. The trial will resume on February 12, where Hepa faces the possibility of a life sentence.

On January 15, 2025, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk accused Russia of planning "acts of terrorism in the air" that could potentially target flights globally. At a press conference in Warsaw, Tusk stated that Poland is actively countering Russian sabotage efforts, referencing a series of incendiary parcel attacks that occurred in Poland, the UK, and Germany during the summer of 2024. According to Tusk, recent intelligence confirms fears surrounding Russia's intent to orchestrate fire bomb attacks capable of bringing down planes mid-flight. He did not provide further details on the intelligence that led to his assertions. The incendiary devices that sparked concern were delivered via DHL, with incidents reported at Birmingham airport and Leipzig airport. In Birmingham, a parcel ignited after having traveled on an aircraft, while in Leipzig, a device was found just before it was to be loaded onto a flight. These packages were said to have originated from Lithuania, raising alarms about security vulnerabilities in postal services. Reports indicated that the attacks were viewed by Western officials as a "dry run" for potential larger-scale incidents targeting the United States. Senior officials in Washington have reportedly communicated to Russian leaders that the U.S. would hold Moscow accountable for any escalation of these terrorism-related activities. In light of these developments, safety measures in parcel handling and air transport are being reviewed, although specific statements aimed at reassuring the public have been scarce. Former German intelligence chief Thomas Haldenwang warned that had the Leipzig parcel ignited in-flight, it could have led to a catastrophic crash. Russia's Foreign Ministry did not respond to requests for comment, consistently denying any involvement in the parcel bomb incidents and other alleged attacks attributed to Russian operatives.

In a disturbing case from Katowice, Poland, a 20-year-old man named Mateusz Hepa confessed in court to murdering an 18-year-old girl after making the decision based on a coin toss. The victim, who was heading home from a party, was lured to Hepa's apartment where he reportedly attacked her. During his confession, Hepa stated that after the coin landed on heads, he killed the victim by strangulation, claiming that he preferred this method to avoid bloodshed. Following the murder, he engaged in sexual acts with the body before attempting to hide it. Hepa admitted to having contemplated the act of murder prior to meeting the girl and confessed to feeling a "need to kill." He was apprehended by police hours after the incident, which has sparked outrage among the victim's friends and family. The trial is set to continue on February 12, where Hepa faces the possibility of a life sentence.

Polish director Patryk Vega's upcoming biopic titled "Putin" has generated considerable attention for its innovative blending of human performance and artificial intelligence. The film features Polish actor Slawomir Sobala, who undertook an extensive study of Vladimir Putin's mannerisms over two years. Utilizing AI technology, Vega superimposed Putin's face onto Sobala's portrayal, aiming to capture an authentic depiction of the Russian leader. Vega stated that conventional acting methods would not suffice for portraying a figure as recognizable as Putin, noting that "inviting Putin to the studio for 20,000 shots wasn’t an option." The film's promotional material suggests a dramatic narrative, depicted through scenes of Putin's early life and rise to power, ultimately portraying a rather unflattering image of the Russian president. Despite the potential risks, including interest from Russian intelligence, Vega is determined to share his vision, having sold distribution rights in over 50 countries. The film emphasizes that "absolute power is never enough," reflecting concerns about Putin’s authoritarian regime and its global implications. In the film industry, Vega's project raises discussions about the role of AI in cinematography, particularly amid ongoing debates surrounding the use of technology in creative processes. Vega remains optimistic, asserting that while AI can assist in film production, the emotional depth of storytelling originates from human experience.