The most crucial decision that was made at the NATO summit is clearly the 1 concerning the increase in defence spending to 5% of GDP. However, it is equally crucial for Poland to declare allies to direct their forces to the east flank. Details in the conversation with “Polish Armed Forces” are discussed by Deputy Prime Minister and National Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.
Realization: Łukasz Zalesiński, Aleksander Kruk, Paweł Sobkowicz
Prime Minister, even before the NATO summit began, you mentioned that this would be 1 of the most crucial events of this kind in fresh years. Now that the proceedings are over, do you confirm these words?
Władysław Kosiniak-Kamish: This is certain, we increase defence spending to 5% of GDP in all the countries of the Alliance. It's a historical decision, due to the fact that it's the biggest increase in NATO history. We return to what happened during the Cold War, although at the time without our participation, to arms on the scale that the allies of the time carried out. It is simply a clear signal that Russia's threat to the NATO states, which we have been talking about for years, is taking the work for the ability to deter all participants not only of the Alliance, but besides of the summits very seriously.
However, the road to this was not the easiest, at any point Spain had objections to this solution, but the country was convinced.
If individual told me a year ago that we were going to figure out that each NATO country is going to usage 5% of GDP to defend itself, I'd say it's any kind of dream. At the time, 8 or 9 countries did not meet the request of 2%. Even six months ago, consent seemed impossible. president Trump must have been very crucial in achieving this level of spending. His function here is undeniable.
The question is how fast these expenses will actually be increased. Will Poland support allies in this process?
The first proposal was more attractive than the 1 that was de facto accepted. Initially, we talked about 0.2 percent per year, so that in the coming years we would scope at least 3.5 percent of the alleged hard expenditure. due to the fact that these 5% will be divided so that each of the countries will spend 3.5% on equipment purchases and 1.5 percent on cybersecurity, infrastructure, mobility. This level is to be achieved in 2035, although we, or Poland, have sought to accomplish this goal in 2032 and even 2030. The Nordic and Baltic states shared our opinion. Nevertheless, I believe that what has been achieved is simply a large success, but we must guarantee that these measures are not increased until closer to 2035, but soon.
As for regional defence plans. How crucial are they from our perspective?
Fulfillment of these plans is possible only if all allies make up for them, that is, directing their forces to act, declaring their ability to fulfil these plans. The more we spend on defense, the easier it will be for us to fulfill these goals, due to the fact that this is simply a strategy of connected vessels. The fact that not only countries from the east flank of NATO, but besides countries distant from it will spend more, is as good news for Poland. due to the fact that it makes Poland safer.
Defence spending and regional defence plans are clearly the most crucial issues that have been raised at this summit, but you have besides discussed another topics.
I had quite a few bilateral meetings, including with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of Australia. The good news is that as shortly as the second half of the year, the Australian aircraft will be stationed in Poland and will defend Polish airspace. The F-35 fighters from Norway will besides return to Poland, and it was decided to extend the presence of German Patriot batteries in Poland. These are very good decisions expanding Poland's safety here and now.
I would besides like to ask about the situation in the mediate East. Although this is not on the agenda of the summit, possibly during bilateral discussions it has appeared.
Yes, he has appeared in many talks, even in the context of the actions that should be taken, as well as the very situation between Israel and Iran. What we have achieved is simply a large success. The United States acted due to the fact that it was their responsibility. Of course, there has besides been a subject of safety in the Gaza Strip, not only in the context of humanitarian aid, but in the context of ending the situation there. It is crucial for many people in Poland and Europe, so we have leaned on it.
