Polish President Andrzej Duda has expressed Poland’s readiness to host nuclear weapons of NATO members in response to Russia’s relocation of its nuclear arsenal to neighboring Belarus. Prime Minister Donald Tusk has indicated that Poland’s security and military potential are paramount but requires further discussion on this proposal. Russia has warned of necessary security measures if the United States deploys nuclear weapons in Poland.
Poland has declared its willingness to host nuclear weapons in response to Russia’s escalating military presence in Belarus and Kaliningrad. President Andrzej Duda stated that Poland would accept nuclear arms from NATO if requested, considering the heightened threat from Russia. Moscow has responded with warnings to take measures to protect its security. Amidst these tensions, nuclear talks between Poland and the US have been ongoing, with the potential for cooperation in handling nuclear weapons to prevent further Russian aggression.
Poland’s industrial output fell sharply in March 2024 due to a significant decline in coal mining, raising concerns about the country’s economic growth prospects. Coal mining output plunged by 25.9% year-over-year, contributing to a 6% decline in industrial production. This steep drop cast doubt on expectations of a 3% economic rebound in Poland this year.
Poland’s President Andrzej Duda has offered to host NATO’s nuclear weapons, sparking backlash from Russian state media. Sputnik news agency has condemned NATO’s policy as “destabilizing” and “dangerous”, citing the potential for escalation of global nuclear conflict. The Russian deployment of nuclear weapons in Belarus, which borders Poland, has increased anxiety in Eastern European countries about Russian expansionism. The Kremlin has threatened retaliatory measures if nuclear weapons are stationed in Poland, while NATO maintains its commitment to collective defense.
Polish President Andrzej Duda has contradicted Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s recent assertion that Europe is entering a “pre-war era.” While Tusk warned of potential military conflict if Ukraine is not adequately supported, Duda expressed confidence in credible deterrence as a means to prevent war. Duda suggested arming up as a strategy to maintain power and avoid becoming a target of attack.
Poland does not possess any US-made Patriot missile systems that it could donate to Ukraine, Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced on Monday. This announcement comes amidst Ukraine’s urgent request for more air defense systems, particularly Patriot batteries, to counter Russia’s missile strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. While other NATO members have pledged to provide Patriot systems, Poland does not have any available to spare, according to Tusk.
