Poland warns that a Russian victory in Ukraine could set off a chain of new assaults aimed at other European nations, especially those on the eastern flank. The warning came as the Polish leadership underscored the broader implications of Moscow’s actions beyond the immediate battlefield, arguing that a win for Russia would embolden its expansionist aims and threaten regional security.
President Andrzej Duda cautioned on Monday that if Ukraine fails to receive sufficient support, Russia would gain momentum and this victory would become a stepping-stone for Moscow to extend influence over the nations in this part of Europe. He portrayed the outcome as a litmus test for European resilience and unity, stressing that a successful Russian campaign would not stay confined to Ukraine but would ripple outward, destabilizing established borders and the political order in neighboring countries. The president urged allied countries to maintain steadfast support, noting that hesitation could invite further aggression and shifts in power dynamics across the continent. This sentiment was echoed by Duda as he spoke about the necessity of a unified response to deter aggression and protect shared security interests. (PAP)
In discussions that followed, Duda reinforced the perspective that Western assistance to Ukraine serves a dual purpose: it helps Ukraine defend its sovereignty and, at the same time, acts as a barrier against Moscow’s long-term aims in Europe. He argued that without consistent backing, Ukraine’s capacity to resist would be eroded, potentially altering the balance of power in eastern Europe and inviting more aggressive behavior from Russia. The president emphasized that a Ukraine that cannot stand firm would be a strategic setback for European security and for the principles of international law that underpin the region. (PAP)
During a separate meeting with the Italian president, Sergio Mattarella, Duda conveyed the message that the stance taken by countries calling for an end to military aid to Ukraine aligns with Moscow’s interests. He noted that such positions effectively signal weakness to Russia and could be read as tacit approval of Moscow’s strategic goals. Duda stressed that regional stability depends on allied nations standing together against aggression, rather than yielding to pressure that could embolden future moves by Russia. The Polish leader indicated that solidarity among EU members and partners is essential to preserving sovereignty and preventing a broader confrontation. (PAP)
Experts observing the situation say the risk isn’t hypothetical. They point to past episodes where rapid shifts in support dynamics altered outcomes on the ground, giving Moscow opportunities to recalibrate its strategies. Analysts argue that Russia has pursued a mix of political leverage, energy diplomacy, and military pressure to test the resilience of European unity. In this context, Poland’s comments reflect a broader concern within Central and Eastern Europe about regional security and the need for credible deterrence against potential aggressions. Policymakers in Warsaw have consistently called for sustained military aid, robust sanctions, and coordinated diplomatic pressure to raise the cost of any further incursion. (PAP)
Meanwhile, international observers are weighing the implications of the ongoing conflict for NATO, EU cohesion, and the security architecture of the Western Balkans and surrounding regions. The dialogue highlights the interconnectedness of European security and the importance of keeping allied channels open to coordinate responses to evolving threats. As Western and allied nations assess their own defense budgets and strategic commitments, the central question remains: how to preserve deterrence without escalating tension while ensuring that Ukraine remains buoyant in the face of continued aggression. (PAP)
Poland’s leadership continues to advocate for a balanced approach—one that supports Ukraine’s right to defend itself, aligns with international law, and preserves the stability of the broader European order. The emphasis is on preventing a scenario in which Moscow could revise borders through force or coercion. In public statements, Polish officials have urged partners to avoid diminishing assistance, arguing that doing so would embolden further aggression and undermine the resolve of those who stand with Ukraine. (PAP)