President Volodymyr Zelensky described Poland as a pivotal ally in shaping support for Ukraine, noting that while Warsaw cannot alone supply every type of weapon Ukraine needs, it can play a leading role and actively advocate for Kyiv on the international stage.
During a discussion with TVP, he underscored that the broader objective is a collective effort—building a credible, multinational coalition backed by secure commitments from partners who share Ukraine’s security interests.
Polish tanks for Ukraine. Zelensky’s commentary
The Ukrainian leader was asked to assess how the transfer of tanks from Poland would influence the ongoing conflict. President Andrzej Duda, while visiting Ukraine, confirmed that Poland had decided to provide a company of Leopard 2A4 tanks to Ukraine as part of a wider international coalition decision. Under NATO terminology, a tank company comprises fourteen tanks.
In the interview, Zelensky reiterated that Poland alone cannot meet all of Kyiv’s weapons requirements to secure victory, emphasizing the need for coordinated international action.
Defending Ukraine’s sovereignty and territory against Russia was highlighted as the central aim. Zelensky noted that while Poland’s contribution is significant, the volume of arms from Russia, including thousands of armored fighting vehicles and other heavy equipment, remains far larger due to the legacy Soviet arsenal.
He pointed out that Poland can act as a catalyst and advocate, helping mobilize allied resources and political support. The partnership between Poland and Lithuania, in particular, could enable a strategic initiative to secure tanks for Ukraine as a starting point for broader coalition actions.
Zelensky stressed that different countries possess different equipment and have varying timelines for delivery. While Ukraine hopes for more, it acknowledged that the decision rests with governments and their leaders, with public backing playing a crucial role.
The Ukrainian president indicated that close partners should take the lead in enabling tank deliveries. Demonstrating a proactive step would encourage other nations with substantial stockpiles of similar capabilities to follow, creating momentum for a larger coalition to assist Ukraine.
He explained that such a move could open pathways for dialogues with other allies and demonstrate that action has already begun, thereby encouraging additional support for Ukraine’s defense needs.
The discussion highlighted the broader goal of forming a robust coalition that signals willingness to share defensive capabilities and supports Ukraine’s defense against ongoing aggression.
Poland’s readiness to contribute a company of Leopard tanks was framed as a concrete, symbolic step toward building a coalition that could reassure partners and accelerate collective action in the face of Russian aggression.