Warsaw (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated on Wednesday that numerous signs suggest the Russia-Ukraine conflict might soon be “at least be suspended.”
Poland is playing an important and active role in the Russia-Ukraine war, with an emphasis on military support for Ukraine and enhancing its own defence capabilities, in case a direct war with Russia takes place.
Tusk stated at the Air Force Institute of Technology in Warsaw that a possible halt would not alter Poland’s position.
“There is a good chance, there are many signs indicating that the Russian-Ukrainian war may at least be suspended in the near future. But this does not change our situation in any way,”
Tusk also said.
“Poland must be ready to defend itself regardless of developments on the Russian-Ukrainian front. And we cannot waste a single hour or day in this race for a modern army,”
He said.
How is Poland strengthening its defence?
Poland’s military overhaul and expansion are forecasted at a rapid pace in light of the ongoing war and threat of wider Russian aggression. By 2025, it will have the biggest military in the EU, the 3rd biggest in NATO, and is preparing to have approximately half a million personnel, including reservists. In a military that is already on the bigger side is unprecedented.
At least as a European power, Poland recently announced that it is voluntary providing military training for all adult males (with options for women) to develop a huge reserve force that can consider civil defence/first aid/firearms, and other military skills. This is a demonstration of a state militia’s potential capability and is a clear indication of a national strategy to prepare for an escalation that could directly involve Poland.
With increased worries over the assurance of U.S. security guarantees, Poland is reaching out to France and the UK to deepen bilateral defence relationships and advocating that France should either provide Poland access to its nuclear umbrella or potentially develop its own nuclear deterrent.
How has Poland contributed to helping Ukraine?
Poland has been one of the leading partners supporting Ukraine in the Russia-Ukraine war. Poland has also provided critical military assistance in the form of weapons, tanks, munitions, and support to help Ukraine sustain its defensive posture against Russia. Poland also accepts some 2 million Ukrainian war refugees; thus, Poland is a frontline state subject to the consequences of the conflict.
Poland’s support to Ukraine is a demonstration of its commitment to regional security, solidarity with Ukraine against Russia’s military aggression, and preparedness for potential attack should it become necessary. More importantly, Poland’s support underscores Poland’s entire national security agenda and position as a unique member of NATO and the European Union in this conflict.
