In the interview, Sikorski underscored the nation's robust defense measures amidst Russian aggression and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. "We are spending the biggest proportion of our GDP (on defense) in NATO, 4% of GDP, and we might go higher next year," Sikorski told the British broadcaster late on Friday.
While expressing skepticism regarding the likelihood of a direct attack on a NATO member state by Putin, Sikorski condemned the Russian strongman’s offensive in Ukraine, branding him a war criminal for his role in the conflict.
Responding to French President Emmanuel Macron's suggestion of Western troop deployment in Ukraine, Sikorski advocated for maintaining an aura of uncertainty to keep Putin guessing about potential Western responses. "It is good to make Putin wonder what we will do and not always reassure him that we won't do certain things," Poland’s chief diplomat said.
Acknowledging the vital role of military aid, Sikorski expressed gratitude to President Biden and the U.S. Congress for their approval of assistance to Ukraine.
He emphasized Ukraine's urgent need for anti-aircraft missiles to protect critical infrastructure, and said that “it’s much better to spend the money on protecting Ukraine, than on having to rebuild it."
In terms of diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict, Sikorski acknowledged the potential mediation role of countries such as Turkey, the UN, and China. However, he said there were “no signs that Putin wants to negotiate."
(jh)
Source: PAP, BBC World