Polish President Andrzej Duda warns of security risks following the Ukraine war, emphasizing Poland’s vulnerability to Russian aggression while reaffirming support for Ukraine.
Poland’s Role in Supporting Ukraine
Polish President Andrzej Duda reaffirmed Poland’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, emphasizing that direct military involvement is not necessary. In an interview with Financial Times, Duda stated, “We will continue to help Ukraine in the future because it is necessary. We do not necessarily have to send our troops there.” He highlighted that Poland remains one of the most vulnerable countries to a potential Russian attack and continues to provide military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine.
Post-War Challenges and Security Concerns
Duda also warned of potential security challenges after the war, drawing parallels to the aftermath of the Soviet Union’s collapse. “Imagine a situation where thousands of people return from the front lines to their homes. Many of those fighting Russia now will have psychological issues,” he said. He compared the situation to the early 1990s in Russia when Soviet-Afghan war veterans fueled organized crime. “Remember the times when the Soviet Union collapsed and how much organized crime increased in Western Europe and also in the U.S.,” Duda cautioned. He stressed that Poland and Ukraine share common interests in countering Russia’s growing imperial ambitions.