In a recent interview with Germany’s “Bild am Sonntag,” Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski made a bold assertion regarding the potential military outcomes should Russia consider an attack on Poland. Emphasizing the strength of the Western alliance, Sikorski stated, “Russia would lose because we, the West, are much stronger than them.” This statement comes at a time of heightened tension in Eastern Europe, with NATO allies reinforcing their eastern flank in response to Russian military activities.
Sikorski’s comments reflect a deep historical awareness of the frequent conflicts between Russia and Poland, dating back over 500 years. “We would not be at all surprised,” Sikorski remarked, suggesting a long-standing preparedness for such scenarios. He further explained that any aggression by Russia would be met with significant resistance, not just from Poland but from an integrated Western defense. “If Russia attacks Poland, they would lose, because we, as the West, are much stronger,” Sikorski reiterated, highlighting the collective military might and strategic advantages held by NATO countries.
In Sikorski’s opinion, “we have a choice – either we will have a defeated Russian army outside the borders of Ukraine, or a triumphant Russian army on the border with Poland“. He argued that if Russia were victorious, Vladimir Putin would act like Hitler did with Czechoslovakia – “he would take control over the industry and people of Ukraine, and use them to continue the war. It is better to stop Putin in Ukraine” – he pointed out.
Discussing the broader implications of the conflict, Sikorski addressed concerns about nuclear warfare, a topic of increasing relevance given recent global tensions. He reassured that there were no signs of imminent nuclear threats from Russia, noting, “There are no physical signals that nuclear warheads have been taken out of storage.” He elaborated on the checks and balances within the Russian military command, emphasizing that “Putin would have to convince his generals to execute such an order, and these generals would know that it would make them war criminals.”
Additionally, Sikorski reminded of media reports, according to which the USA warned Russia against the use of nuclear weapons. “The United States very firmly told Russia that they would use their conventional forces to destroy any Russian target on the occupied territories of Ukraine, if Russia uses nuclear weapons (…). I think that this is a strong deterrent” – assessed the Polish minister.
He also expressed hope for a change in Germany’s decision regarding the transfer of Taurus missiles to Ukraine. “The United States has supplied Ukraine with the famous ATACMS missiles with a range of 300 km. I hope that the Chancellor of Germany, Olaf Scholz, realizes that this is a response to a drastic escalation by Russia. Russians have already destroyed 70% of the potential for electricity production in Ukraine. This is effectively a war crime” – Sikorski said.
The interview also covered Sikorski’s upcoming meetings with German officials, including German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, focusing on bolstering support for Ukraine.
He critically assessed the attitude of politicians in Germany towards Russia. “German politicians seem satisfied that Russia will be ready (to attack one of the NATO countries – ed. note) only in four to five years, and by then Germany (plans) will be ready (for defense). However, before Russia reaches Germany, it will have to reach other countries” – said Sikorski. As he pointed out to “BamS”, this concerns Poland or the Baltic countries.
“I think we all know now that Putin only responds to pressure, to the sharpest arguments of brute force. We warned Germany about this, for example in the case of the Nord Stream (pipeline), but at that time we were not listened to. I hope this time they will listen to us,” Sikorski concluded.
In the upcoming week, the head of Polish diplomacy is set to meet his German counterpart, Annalena Baerbock. Both agree that Ukraine needs even more support – reports “BamS”.”
This comprehensive statement by Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski to “Bild am Sonntag” outlines the strategic posture of Poland and its NATO allies regarding the potential threat posed by Russia. Sikorski’s insights reflect a blend of historical perspective and contemporary geopolitical strategy, emphasizing the combined strength of Western nations in the face of potential aggression and the critical importance of diplomatic and military readiness.
