Poland FM Sikorski: Russia-Ukraine War a Grave Threat to European Security

Poland's Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski stated the Russia-Ukraine conflict is a serious challenge to the entire European security architecture. He revealed Poland is allocating 4.7% of its GDP to defense to bolster its and Europe's security. Sikorski analyzed that China has gained strategic advantages from the war, making Russia dependent on it for key goods and services. He emphasized that Europe must now strengthen both its defense capabilities and political will in a changed geopolitical landscape.

Key Points: Poland FM Sikorski on Russia-Ukraine War & European Security

  • War challenges European security
  • Poland spends 4.7% GDP on defense
  • China gains strategic advantage
  • Russia becomes dependent on China
  • Dialogue needed with adversaries
2 min read

Russia-Ukraine war a serious challenge to entire European security architecture: Poland FM Sikorski

Poland's FM Radosław Sikorski calls the Russia-Ukraine war a fundamental challenge to European security, details defense spending, and analyzes Russia-China ties.

"Russia talks about trust, but its actions say otherwise. - Radosław Sikorski"

Jaipur, January 18

On the fourth day of the Jaipur Literature Festival 2026 on Sunday a session titled "A Continent in Crisis: Russia, Ukraine and the European Story" was held during which Poland's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski spoke candidly on the Russia - Ukraine war, Europe's security, the Russia-China equation, and the global balance of power.

He said, "Russia talks about trust, but its actions say otherwise. Attacks on Kyiv and constant military threats expose the reality behind this so-called brotherhood."

Sikorski said that the Russia-Ukraine war is not merely a regional conflict, but a serious challenge to the entire European security architecture. He made it clear that Poland is spending 4.7 per cent of its GDP on "defence to strengthen its security and remains fully committed to European security."

The Polish minster was in conversation with senior diplomat Navtej Sarna.

Speaking on Russia-China relations, Sikorski said, "China has gained strategic advantages since the Ukraine war began. Russia is now being forced to sell oil at cheaper prices and is becoming increasingly dependent on China for high-quality goods, internet access, and cyber services. He expressed concern that in return, Russia is providing North Korea with missile and nuclear technology, which could further increase global instability."

Referring to history, Sikorski said that after the Cold War, Europe had come to believe in an era of lasting peace, but that phase is now over. "Europe is a small but prosperous continent, and it must now strengthen both its defence capabilities and its political will," he said.

On diplomacy, he noted that dialogue is not conducted only with friends, but also with adversaries and enemies. What truly matters, he emphasized, is the quality of the dialogue, not merely its existence.

The session also discussed Europe's unified response, the role of NATO, Russia's evolving strategy, and the tendency to distort global history.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
The point about China gaining strategic advantage is crucial for global geopolitics. It directly impacts the Indo-Pacific region. India needs to navigate the Russia-China relationship very carefully while protecting its own interests.
P
Priya S
It's good to see such important global discussions happening at the Jaipur Lit Fest! Makes me proud. The minister is right about dialogue needing quality, not just existence. Something our diplomats understand well in dealing with complex neighbours.
R
Rohit P
The comment on Russia providing tech to North Korea is alarming. It creates a dangerous ripple effect far beyond Europe. India must strengthen its missile defence and diplomatic channels simultaneously. Global instability hurts developing economies the most.
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Navtej Sarna
Having moderated this session, I found Minister Sikorski's historical perspective sharp. The belief in lasting peace post-Cold War was indeed a Western construct. Asia never had that luxury. India's foreign policy has always been pragmatic, prepared for shifting alliances.
K
Karthik V
While I understand Europe's concerns, I respectfully think the focus is too Euro-centric. The war has caused global food and fuel inflation, hurting poor nations. The discussion needs more on how Europe will help mitigate these worldwide impacts, not just secure itself.
M
Meera T

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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