Episode 173. Poland's History of Courage and Its Role in the Russia-Ukraine Conflict (with Lawrence Reed) - The Forge of Freedom

Show Notes

Episode 173. Poland's History of Courage and Its Role in the Russia-Ukraine Conflict (with Lawrence Reed)

In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley speaks with Lawrence (“Larry”) Reed about Poland's historical resilience and its current role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. They discuss Poland's courageous legacy, particularly the story of Witold Pilecki, who infiltrated Auschwitz to expose Nazi atrocities. The conversation also covers Poland's humanitarian response to the Ukrainian refugee crisis, public sentiment regarding NATO, and the importance of freedom and resistance against tyranny. Reed emphasizes the need for continued vigilance in safeguarding liberties and the growing influence of Poland in Europe.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Poland's Role in the Russia-Ukraine Conflict

02:53 Larry Reed's Connection to Poland and Historical Context

05:18 The Blinking Lights Project and Its Significance

08:14 Poland's Historical Resistance to Oppression

10:43 Witold Pilecki: A Hero of Courage and Resistance

13:27 The Brutality of Soviet Occupation vs. Nazi Occupation

15:59 Poland's Current Stance on the Russia-Ukraine Conflict

18:41 Poland's Humanitarian Response to the Ukrainian Refugee Crisis

21:35 The Historical Relationship Between Poland and Ukraine

24:11 Conclusion: Lessons from Poland's History for the Future

31:20 Understanding Putin's Intentions

34:09 Poland's Perspective on NATO and Ukraine

37:14 Public Sentiment in Poland Regarding Ukraine

39:33 The Role of the United States in European Defense

41:35 Ukraine's Internal Struggles vs. External Threats

44:50 The Historical Context of Ukrainian Suffering

47:24 Poland's Humanitarian Response to Ukraine

49:14 Future Outlook for Poland and Europe

55:02 A Message to the Polish People

58:10 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

​​Resources

Lawrence W. Reed

https://www.lawrencewreed.com/

https://fee.org/people/lawrence-w-reed/

FEE’s President Emeritus Lawrence Reed to be Honored in Warsaw and Receive Order of Merit - FEE

https://fee.org/resources/fee-s-president-emeritus-lawrence-reed-to-be-honored-in-warsaw-and-receive-order-of-merit/

A Tribute to the Polish People

https://fee.org/articles/a-tribute-to-the-polish-people/

Lawrence W. Reed: Statement to the President of Poland

https://fee.org/articles/lawrence-w-reed-statement-to-the-president-of-poland/

Real Heroes: Inspiring True Stories of Courage, Character, and Conviction – FEE Store

https://store.fee.org/products/real-heroes?_gl=1*1yle19c*_gcl_au*MTIxOTE4NzI5OC4xNzQyMjk5OTcx

Witold Pilecki: Bravery Beyond Measure

https://fee.org/articles/he-volunteered-to-go-to-auschwitz/

Pilecki's Report

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Witold%27s_Report

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11912616/

Holodomor