The Soviet recognition of Poland's new government in 1945 reshaped the map of Europe
The Soviet Union's formal recognition of a pro-communist government in Poland on January 5, 1945, signaled the beginning of the Cold War and the redrawing of Eastern Europe's borders.
As World War II neared its end in 1945, the Soviet Union officially recognized the Lublin-based Provisional Government of the Republic of Poland. This move deliberately ignored the Polish government-in-exile based in London, which had been the recognized authority throughout the war. By installing a pro-Soviet administration, Joseph Stalin effectively secured a buffer zone between the USSR and the West.
There's more to this story — open the app to keep reading.
Continue Reading in App
1 more paragraphs · plus a 3-question quiz