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Sikorski: Poland to boost defense spending, leading NATO amid global tensions

13.07.2024 08:50
In an interview with Bloomberg, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski announced that Poland's defense spending would increase from over 4% of GDP this year to 5% next year, making it the highest in NATO, including the United States.
Poland to lead NATO in defense spending amid rising global tensions, says Polish foreign minister Radosław Sikorski.
Poland to lead NATO in defense spending amid rising global tensions, says Polish foreign minister Radosław Sikorski. PAP/Radek Pietruszka

Sikorski emphasized that despite the increase in defense spending, it should not be the sole criterion for NATO membership, citing Iceland's strategic importance despite having no military.

He also criticized the notion of NATO being a "neighborhood security company" and mentioned ongoing contacts with former U.S. President Donald Trump's team, including a meeting with former National Security Advisor Robert C. O'Brien.

Sikorski highlighted that O'Brien has advocated for shifting NATO forces to Poland and conditioned further U.S. defense of Europe on European contributions, especially concerning Ukraine.

Regarding China's role in the Ukraine conflict, Sikorski noted that while China supports Russia economically, it has not crossed the "red line" by sending weapons and urged China to use its influence to end the war.

Source: PAP/youtube.com/@Bloomberg Television

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