Poland Urges Deeper Strikes into Russia, Hosts Key Talks with Blinken

Poland called for allowing Ukraine to launch deeper Western missile strikes into Russia during talks with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. In Warsaw, Blinken highlighted Poland's defence efforts against Russia and discussed potential collaboration on civilian nuclear energy. Moscow warned of escalation if long-range strikes are approved.

Poland joined calls on Thursday for Ukraine to be permitted to fire Western-supplied missiles deep into Russia. This took place as the nation hosted U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken for strategic talks in Warsaw. Kyiv has been pushing the Biden administration and other Western governments to authorize long-distance strikes, arguing they are crucial to counter Russia's ongoing aerial assaults on Ukraine.

Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski stated, 'We should continue to deliver advanced air defence systems to Ukraine and lift restrictions on the use of long-range weapons,' during a joint news conference with Blinken. Blinken, wrapping up his European visit, said he had in-depth discussions with Ukrainian officials in Kyiv about their perspective on the war and their pressing needs. However, he refrained from confirming whether Washington would approve such strikes.

Blinken noted, 'What we learned from our Ukrainian partners will inform discussions that we'll be having with other allies and partners in the coming days and weeks as we work through and think through the coming months.' He emphasized the appropriateness of beginning such discussions in Poland, highlighting the country's staunch support for Ukraine.

Russia has issued a warning that any decision permitting Ukraine to strike its territory with Western long-range missiles would escalate what it terms the direct involvement of the U.S. and Europe in the conflict, prompting a response from Moscow. Poland has strengthened its borders with Belarus and Russia following the deteriorating relations and increased defensive measures since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Blinken commended Poland for its 'gold standard' defense spending within the NATO alliance.

Warsaw has accused Moscow of conducting hybrid attacks, including arson, sabotage, and cyberattacks, along with orchestrating a migrant crisis on Poland's eastern border. Russia has denied these allegations. Blinken underscored that such hybrid attacks were part of Russia's 'deliberate strategy,' and NATO allies were ensuring repercussions for Moscow through broad sanctions.

Additionally, Blinken praised Poland's progress in shifting away from Russian energy and discussed cooperation on furthering energy independence, including the building of Poland's first civilian nuclear power plant. $1 equals 3.8919 zlotys.

(With inputs from agencies.)