Germany needs to take seriously that for Poland the question of reparations for the WW II losses is still an unresolved and pressing issue ($1.4 trillion). As Poland and Germany heavily invest in and upgrade their militaries to face the threat from Russia, there could one day be more than just a diplomatic conflict between both countries. Accepting these historical undercurrents and resolving the conflicts and resentments is necessary so that Europe can embrace its new identity as a union of aligned liberal democracies. For that to happen, the feelings of injustice that still persist beween neighbours need to be addressed openly.