The Polish president, Andrzej Duda, stated on Friday that he does not expect Russia to decide to attack any NATO member. In an interview with BBC News, he also suggested that Ukraine might not have faced the current conflict had it been admitted to the Alliance earlier.
Commenting on the latest developments in Ukraine, including Russia’s capture of Avdiivka, the ammunition shortages faced by Ukrainian forces, and difficulties in recruiting new troops, Duda recalled the surprise that followed the invasion two years ago. At that time, many believed Kyiv would fall quickly, if not within hours then within days.
Two years on, Ukraine continues to defend itself. It has shown resilience and resolve, holding back Russian aggression despite extraordinarily tough moments on the front lines. There are also brighter periods. For the Polish president, one point stands out: Ukraine remains independent and sovereign.
Asked about Lech Kaczyński’s 2008 warning that after Georgia Ukraine might be next, followed by the Baltic states and Poland, Duda expressed the view that Russia would refrain from attacking any NATO country. He emphasized that Article Five, the alliance’s collective defense pledge, would complicate any attempt at a NATO war, given Russia’s two-year effort to conquer Ukraine and the Ukrainian people’s steadfast resistance.
Reflecting on the Bucharest summit of 2008, where Ukraine’s membership discussions were stalled by objections from France and Germany, Duda suggested that had Ukraine joined the alliance, Russia would not have dared to strike a NATO member state. He also commented on remarks by Donald Trump during the U.S. presidential campaign, noting that campaigns often feature harsher rhetoric than ordinary political discourse. Duda reminded that all member states had committed to meeting the 2% GDP defense spending target.
He expressed hope that, despite ongoing political disagreements, the U.S. Congress would approve further assistance to Ukraine. He underscored a belief that no nation has provided more aid to Ukraine than the United States, and that Ukraine’s ability to defend itself has been buoyed substantially by this support.
Sanctions against Russia
Duda highlighted that sanctions aimed at Russia are bearing fruit and should be maintained and broadened. He described their impact as painful for the Russian economy and living standards, while also constraining the Russian defense sector. He noted that sanctions are sometimes evaded, yet they remain essential and should be intensified, including targeting the Russian financial markets and banking sector. He urged Europe to push forward with additional packages of sanctions against Moscow.
In addition, Duda advocated using frozen Russian assets to help rebuild Ukraine. He also called for a renewed focus on strengthening the European defense industry, arguing for joint European ammunition production to address the region’s serious shortages. He emphasized the need for substantial discussions about reconstructing Europe’s defense capabilities.
Readers are reminded of the broader message: Poland has stood firmly with Ukraine in its pursuit of freedom, and the international community must continue to support Kyiv to prevent any return of Vladimir Putin’s aims. The discussion reflects a broader consensus on sustaining allied unity and strategic resilience in Europe.
— End of remarks from the interview referenced by wPolityce.