German President Rejects Greece’s WWII Reparations Demand

During his visit to Greece, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier firmly rejected Greece’s longstanding demand for World War II reparations, asserting that Germany considers the legal issue closed. Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou raised the reparations matter during discussions with Steinmeier, calling it an unresolved yet important topic for Greece.

Steinmeier responded by acknowledging the differing legal perspectives between the two nations on the matter, reiterating Germany’s stance that the reparations issue is legally resolved. “Our legal stances on reparations differ, as you know. We hold the opinion that from a legal perspective, this matter is considered closed,” he stated. However, he emphasized Germany’s ongoing commitment to acknowledging its historical responsibilities, particularly concerning the Greek city of Thessaloniki.