Pawe Supernak/PAP
According to the Polish minister for defence, Russia’s increasing assertive stance has caused a shift in the security environment surrounding Poland.
Two-day meeting between NATO defence ministers and Russian counterparts was held in Brussels on Wednesday.
Mariusz Baszczak said that it was important to accept that the security environment in our country has changed.
Baszczak stated that “we have to be aware of the fact that even if Russian President Vladimir Putin doesn’t attack (Ukraine – PAP), he will continue his aggressive policy, as evidenced by his subsequent actions.”
He said, “So we need to build further deterrence capacities.”
Baszczak claims that all member states of NATO share the same views regarding Ukraine’s threats.
“A strong declaration… and solidarity with Ukraine, and readiness to increase engagement in Nato’s Eastern flank, of course in line with developments is the message that was shared by all participants at today’s meeting,” said the Polish minister.
Russia has deployed more than 100,000 troops to the border with Ukraine. The Russians have demanded concessions from Nato including assurances that they will not accept any new members from the east. Nato is closely watching the joint military maneuvers that Moscow and Minsk have started.
On Wednesday, the United States and NATO accused Russia of increasing its military presence in Ukraine despite Moscow’s claims otherwise.