Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski has raised concerns that Russia may be storing approximately 100 tactical nuclear warheads in the Kaliningrad region.
The statement was made during a conference on Ukraine’s reconstruction held in Berlin, underscoring the perceived threat from the Polish perspective.
Sikorski outlined the proximity of the threat, noting that Kaliningrad is situated merely 250 kilometres north of Warsaw.
He emphasised that this region, an exclave of Russia, could house significant nuclear capabilities, a scenario that presents an immediate and direct threat to Poland and the broader European region.
“Kaliningrad is just 250 kilometres north of Warsaw, and it is estimated to contain about 100 tactical nuclear warheads,” Sikorski stated.
He also highlighted the eastern border of Poland, where Belarus, a close ally of Russia, poses another potential threat due to its cooperation with Russia.
Historical Assertions and Recent Developments
Reports dating back to spring 2022 from neighbouring countries have suggested that Russia might already have nuclear weapons positioned in the Baltic region. These claims, though not universally verified, have contributed to heightened tensions and security concerns in Eastern Europe.
Additionally, Sikorski reminded attendees of incidents where Russian missiles, aimed at Ukraine, had strayed into Polish territory.
He referenced a specific incident where a missile landed 10 kilometres from his residence in western Poland, illustrating the tangible risks posed by the ongoing conflict and military activities in the region.
“One such missile fell just 10 kilometres from my home in western Poland, 250 kilometres from here. This danger is closer than it may seem to some,” he remarked, driving home the immediacy of the threat.
April Statements and Current Stance
Despite the alarming nature of his recent comments, Sikorski had previously downplayed concerns regarding the use of nuclear weapons by Russia in the context of the Ukraine conflict.
In April, he stated there was no significant reason to worry about the potential deployment of nuclear arms by Russia against Ukraine.
Implications for European Security
The possibility of Russia storing nuclear warheads in Kaliningrad is not a new concern but one that has gained renewed attention amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The strategic location of Kaliningrad, bordered by NATO members Poland and Lithuania, makes it a focal point of military and geopolitical strategies.
The presence of nuclear weapons in such a region could alter the security dynamics in Europe, prompting calls for increased vigilance and preparedness among NATO allies. Sikorski’s remarks reflect a broader apprehension within Eastern Europe regarding Russia’s military capabilities and intentions.
Read also:
Polish Soldier Murdered by Illegal Migrants on Belarus Border
Click here for more News & Current Affairs at EU Today
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
