SIKORSKI: UKRAINE IS KEEPING PUTIN’S TANKS AWAY FROM POLAND
“Do we want Putin’s tanks in Dorohusk and Medyka, or would we rather have them in Donbas? The further from our borders, the better.”
Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski has offered one of the clearest practical arguments for supporting Ukraine, describing the country as Poland’s “functional ally” in keeping Russia away from its borders.
This is not an appeal based on sentiment, nor does it ignore the genuine disputes that continue to strain relations between Warsaw and Kyiv. It is a blunt calculation based on geography and national security.
Every Russian formation stopped in Ukraine is one that cannot be positioned along Poland’s frontier. Every Russian missile, armored vehicle and soldier destroyed before reaching NATO territory reduces the threat Poland may eventually face itself.
Sikorski’s message also appears aimed at Poland’s political middle and voters who may be skeptical about continued assistance. Poland and Ukraine can disagree over trade, history and bilateral policy while still recognizing one unavoidable reality: a defeated or abandoned Ukraine would bring Russia considerably closer to Poland.
Supporting Ukraine is therefore not charity. In practical terms, Ukraine is defending Poland’s eastern approaches before Polish soldiers are forced to do it themselves.