Iraq veteran tells Labour ‘wake up and smell the coffee’ in firm Armistice Day message

Speaking on GB News, Maciejewski spoke about the significance of today’s events while calling on Labour to do more to ensure the legacy carries on.

“We are not historically spending enough on defence”, he said.

“I’m also Polish, as you will see from my name. All of my family are Polish. Of course, we are on the front line of NATO in Poland and Poland is massively increasing defence.

“This country needs to wake up and smell the coffee. Poland is increasing its defences because they’re concerned about the activities of Putin next door.”

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Speaking on today’s importance, he said: “Armistice Day and the remembrance as we know it today emerged from the First World War and the trauma of that, but also the victory of the First World War.

“I think today is a day to again reflect on what it means to defend what we stand for through history and what that involves in terms of sacrifice.

“It’s not just about people dying, although obviously that’s tragic for every family that’s lost people.

“Of course, losses continue since the First World War. It’s about what that sacrifice means. It means giving to others.”

The Prime Minister has pledged a “moment of national reflection” in 2025, with events on May 8 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the allied victory in Europe, and also on August 15 to mark the end of the Second World War.

Sir Keir said he is “honoured to be in Paris to stand united with President Macron in tribute to the fallen of the First World War who made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom we enjoy today”.

He added: “These events are vital in ensuring the memory of millions of young soldiers, sailors, and aviators live on for generations to come.

“That is why this Government will bring the nation together in a moment of national reflection to mark the 80th anniversaries of VE and VJ Day next year, delivering on our commitment to strengthen community spirit and cohesion and remember the fallen.”