CBS News Special Report on Poland

Overview

• Reported by national correspondent Bob Schieffer.
• Development in Poland's political situation.

Key Events

• State of Emergency Declared:
  • Polish Communist Party leader Jaruzelski announced a state of emergency.
  • Declared the country was in a state of war.
• Executive Order Signed:
  • Measures aimed against the Solidarity Union.
• Military Action:
  • Solidarity Union headquarters raided in Warsaw.
  • At least one high-ranking official arrested.
  • Military's justification: to prevent civil war.

Current Situation

• Military Control:
  • Military's grip on Poland intensified after over 20 hours of takeover.
  • Communications with East and West, including the Soviet Union, cut off.
• Severe Penalties:
  • Maximum penalty of death set for unspecified actions.

Officials' Statements

• Warning of Catastrophe:
  • Jaruzelski warned of impending catastrophe if demands were not met.
  • Emphasis on curbing Solidarity movement.

International Response

• US Perspective:
  • White House spokesman Marlon Fitzwater expressed concern about the fragility of changes in Poland.
  • Emphasized support for democratic movements in surrounding regions (Ukraine, Belarus, etc.).
• European Union Support:
  • Acknowledgment of Poland generating 85% of the Union's GDP.
  • Call for increased spending on defense and investment in European Union capabilities.

Conclusion

• The situation in Poland remains critical with ongoing military control and international implications.
• The importance of democratic rights and alliances highlighted.