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Polish defense minister launches diplomatic offensive amid escalating security concerns in Europe

18.11.2024 15:30
Poland’s Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz has announced a major diplomatic initiative on European and regional security.
Polands Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.
Poland's Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.PAP/Łukasz Gągulski

The campaign comes amid heightened tensions following Russia’s intensified airstrikes on Ukraine and reports that the Biden administration has approved the use of U.S.-supplied weapons for strikes deep within Russian territory.

Strengthening regional and European alliances

During a press conference on Monday, Kosiniak-Kamysz revealed a packed diplomatic agenda for the coming weeks, aimed at bolstering security cooperation. "This week, I will participate in a meeting of the Northern Group, where Poland will engage in discussions about the security situation in Europe. I will also visit Bratislava to meet with Slovakia’s defense minister to address regional security issues," he said.

The Northern Group, established in 2010, includes 12 NATO or EU member states from Northern Europe, fostering closer collaboration on security matters. Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized the importance of such dialogues in light of current threats.

Building cooperation on NATO's Eastern Flank

Looking ahead, the Polish defense minister outlined plans for a meeting with Romanian counterparts next week, extending invitations to other NATO allies along the Eastern Flank. Additionally, Kosiniak-Kamysz will travel to Berlin to join defense ministers from France, Germany, the UK, Italy, and Poland in strategic discussions. "I have also proposed expanding this meeting to include Ukraine's defense minister," he noted, underscoring Poland's commitment to integrating Ukraine into broader security frameworks.

Diplomatic push amid escalating conflict

The announcement follows a significant escalation in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, including large-scale airstrikes by Russia on Ukraine. Reports from U.S. media indicate that the Biden administration has authorized Ukraine to use American weapons to target sites deep inside Russia—a development Kosiniak-Kamysz framed as a pivotal moment for regional security.

"In the current security landscape, we must be prepared for every scenario," he stated, calling for unified action among NATO and EU members to address evolving threats.

Meanwhile, Polish President Andrzej Duda on Monday praised U.S. President Joe Biden’s decision to allow Ukraine to use American-provided missiles on Russian territory, calling it a "much-needed" move that underscores the West’s unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.

(jh)

Source: IAR, PAP