Poland has requested an apology from conservative commentator Tucker Carlson following his remarks about Adolf Hitler’s invasion of Poland and his criticism of the United Kingdom’s decision to enter World War II. Bogdan Klich, charge d’affaires at the Polish Embassy in Washington, D.C., described Carlson as “an apologist for Adolf Hitler.” Carlson had questioned the U.K.’s decision to oppose Nazi Germany during a podcast conversation. Newsweek sought a response from the Tucker Carlson Network.
What Did Tucker Carlson Say?
During a podcast with former British Cabinet minister Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, Carlson argued that Hitler had grievances over territory transferred to Poland after World War I. Carlson questioned the U.K.’s decision to fight in World War II, citing Hitler’s claims about land once belonging to Germany, transferred at the Treaty of Versailles. “The idea that Hitler just randomly rolled into Poland is a lie,” he asserted, claiming the U.K. was not involved. Rees-Mogg countered by stating that the U.K.’s participation was essential in a classic good-versus-evil scenario.
Rees-Mogg argued the U.K.’s involvement was the right action, suggesting otherwise citizens might speak German today. Carlson responded dismissively, to which Rees-Mogg replied that Carlson seemed close to defending Hitler.
What Did the Polish Embassy Say?
On October 5, Klich expressed outrage over the “false and deeply troubling statements” made in the podcast. Klich found Carlson’s remarks about the Treaty of Versailles to be a “colossal insult” to victims, including American servicemen. Klich highlighted the progression of events, noting Germany’s previous annexation of Sudetenland and its invasion of Poland on September 1, 1939, following the renouncement of a non-aggression pact with Poland.
Klich emphasized that the Allied Forces’ decleration of war was not merely political but necessary because of Hitler’s ambitions of conquest. He accused Carlson of becoming an apologist for Hitler and demanded a public retraction and apology for his “deceitful and disgraceful statements.”
Who Else Has Responded?
Senator Ted Cruz, a Republican from Texas and a critic of Carlson, responded on social media affirming, “Yes, Tucker, the UK is better off for winning WWII.” He added that both America and the world are in a better position because the Nazis did not win the war. The Berlin-based Polish Institute of Culture and Research issued a statement that highlighted the danger of normalizing historical grievances to justify current aggression, emphasizing that this stance undermines human rights and international order.
For further context, inquiries on this story can be directed to Newsweek editors Ben Kelly and Sam Wilson.