Short remarks from President Andrzej Duda and Deputy Prime Minister Mariusz Błaszczak opened the gathering of Poland’s National Security Council shortly after midday. The president underscored that today marks the anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and expressed satisfaction that the council could assemble to address key security concerns.
The president convenes the Security Council meeting
The president noted that a security council session had been called, describing it as a traditional step in response to evolving events beyond Poland’s eastern border. He highlighted the ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine and referenced a string of major international developments that touch on regional security. He also noted Poland’s active role on the international stage, including engagements following President Joe Biden’s visit and the Bucharest Nine consultations.
The session’s chair stressed that the council would review recent developments and the actions underway to respond. In addition to the president, the meeting brought together leaders from political groups, defense and interior ministers, the marshals of the Sejm and Senate, senior military commanders, and the head of the National Security Bureau, Jacek Siewiera.
The president pointed out that Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, who visited Kyiv on Friday, was not present at the session.
“The Prime Minister is in Kyiv today,” the president remarked with a smile, “to receive the Leopard tanks as the first tranche of coalition aid to Ukraine.”
– he noted.
Poland’s leadership takes the lead
He added that, with the appearance of these modern tanks on Ukrainian soil, Poland could take a clear leading role in this area.
From this perspective, the Prime Minister’s actions on this day take on extra significance, especially given that it coincides with the anniversary of Russia’s attack on Ukraine.
The chairman also stated, “I am pleased that we can meet and discuss all security issues.”
– he continued, turning to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Mariusz Błaszczak to speak next.
“We are steadily strengthening our defense”
On one hand, it was emphasized that Poland continues to support Ukraine actively. On January 11, the president introduced a coalition plan aimed at supplying Ukraine with Western-produced tanks.
– the Minister of National Defense explained.
He noted that the coalition was formed with Germany playing a central role in the effort.
The minister thanked the defense ministers of participating countries for their contributions, which made it possible to assemble a battalion for deployment to Ukraine.
The president indicated that Polish Leopard tanks have already arrived in Ukraine, while Ukrainian troops are currently receiving training from Polish, Canadian, and Norwegian instructors at Świętoszów. This represents not only ongoing support but also a push to expand Poland’s own armed forces.
Blaszczak commented that last year saw the highest level of voluntary military service since conscription was suspended. He stressed ongoing efforts to equip the armed forces with the latest NATO-standard equipment.
The head of the Ministry of National Defense listed recent acquisitions, such as K2 tanks and K9 self-propelled howitzers, noting that several contracts had already been signed or would be finalized soon, with deliveries expected to Poland in the near future.
“We are consistently building the defense capabilities of the Republic of Poland,” the minister stated.
“We act to deter any aggressor. The Polish armed forces are being strengthened to achieve this goal,” he summarized.
END OF REPORT: The session underscored the unity of the Western alliance and Poland’s commitment to strengthening regional security. The dialogue highlighted ongoing training efforts, equipment modernization, and international cooperation that underpin Poland’s strategic posture in the face of regional tensions. The National Security Council’s work continues to focus on safeguarding Poland’s security, sovereignty, and stability.
aja/PAP, Twitter: @presidentpl
Source: wPolityce