Sikorski's remarks were made during a joint press conference in Warsaw with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who reaffirmed the United States' commitment to adapting its support to Ukraine based on the evolving battlefield situation.
Sikorski told reporters that Russia's continued attacks on civilian infrastructure, such as residential buildings and hospitals, constitute war crimes.
He said that missiles striking these civilian targets continue to be launched from Russian bombers stationed within Russia.
He stressed Ukraine’s right to defend itself and use Western-supplied weapons to counter these threats.
Concerns over Russia's hybrid warfare tactics
Both Sikorski and Blinken addressed concerns over Russia's hybrid warfare tactics, particularly attacks on Poland as part of broader assaults on NATO's eastern flank.
Sikorski warned that if a Polish citizen were injured in any future incident, Poland would respond decisively, ensuring that Russia takes notice.
He referred to previous attacks involving armed "migrants," which he said were organized by Russia and Belarus on Poland’s border, resulting in the death of a Polish soldier.
Sikorski also highlighted ongoing attempts at sabotage, which he said Poland has been able to prevent thanks to cooperation with US intelligence agencies.
He told the news conference that Russian drones and missiles have violated Polish airspace on several occasions, further escalating tensions.
Blinken acknowledged these hybrid attacks and emphasized that they are being carefully monitored in collaboration with NATO allies.
He said that Russia employs a wide range of tactics across different countries as part of a broader strategy to destabilize the region.
He declared that the United States is working closely with partners to exchange intelligence and take actions that would have consequences for Russia’s aggressive behavior.
Polish FM advocates lifting restrictions on long-range weapons
Responding to a question about Ukraine’s use of Western weapons to target Russian territory, Blinken reiterated that Washington has been providing Kyiv with the tools Ukraine needs to defend itself from day one of the invasion.
He stated that US support would continue to adapt as the situation evolves on the battlefield.
Earlier in the week, Blinken visited Kyiv, where he discussed Ukraine’s military needs, reaffirming the US administration's commitment to equipping Ukraine to effectively defend against Russian aggression.
Thursday's press conference came amid heightened tensions as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky continues to request permission from Western allies to use long-range missiles to strike targets within Russia, aiming to increase pressure on Moscow to end the war.
Blinken indicated that US President Joe Biden has not ruled out granting such permission.
As the conflict continues, the collaboration between Poland, Ukraine and their Western allies remains crucial in responding to Russia’s aggression on multiple fronts.
"Together with our Western allies, we should continue providing Ukraine with advanced air defense and missile systems, while also lifting restrictions on the use of long-range weapons," Sikorski said.
He also called for stronger action to confiscate frozen Russian assets, which could be used to aid in Ukraine’s reconstruction.
"While support for Ukraine remains one of the most important aspects of our relationship, our cooperation with Washington goes far beyond that," he told reporters.
He added: "We are key partners in the field of security. The US military presence in our country, something successive governments have sought, including a permanent presence in part, significantly contributes to enhancing Poland's security."
Sikorski emphasized that the security partnership between Poland and the United States remains crucial, Polish state news agency PAP reported.
Poland is also modernizing its military with significant purchases of American-made equipment, including F-16 and F-35 fighter jets, Apache helicopters, Abrams tanks, and the HIMARS and Patriot defense systems.
"The U.S. has become not only a key security partner but also an increasingly important economic ally for Poland," Sikorski said, pointing to growing cooperation in energy, trade and technology.
Blinken echoed this sentiment, thanking Poland for its steadfast support of Ukraine and broader democratic ideals.
He said that many countries were working to help Ukraine not only repel Russia's invasion but also achieve long-term success, including economic development and strengthening democracy.
He told reporters that Poland is a vital part of the alliance that has formed in response to Putin's aggression.
While in Warsaw on Thursday, Blinked also met with Polish President Andrzej Duda and Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
(rt/gs)
Source: IAR, PAP