Russia’s attacks on Ukraine, especially the increasing threats to Ukraine’s west and Poland’s rapid response to them, have created a new level of tension in Europe. Poland, a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the European Union (EU), has been on high alert since Russia launched its invasion in February 2022. The Polish Armed Forces have increased security in border areas by re-launching fighter jets during Russia’s missile attacks in Ukraine, and have also maximized air defense and radar systems. As concerns about the conflict spreading across Europe deepen, Poland is building a large-scale defense operation it calls “Eastern Shield.” In addition to these developments, Poland is increasing the number of Starlink terminals in order to increase Ukraine’s defense and communication capabilities. It is stated that providing a reliable internet infrastructure, especially in wartime conditions, greatly contributes to Ukraine’s strengthening both in civilian and military terms. Polish Minister of Digital Technologies Krzysztof Gawkowski announced that a total of 24,400 Starlink terminals will be sent to Ukraine by the end of 2024 from Elon Musk's SpaceX company and that these terminals are being "lent" by Poland. In this way, tax and legal obstacles are overcome, while the Ukrainian army's front-line communications are also supported. On the other hand, Sweden states that it may consider transferring 14 JAS-39 Gripen C/D fighter jets that it has retired to Ukraine. The fact that the versatile and cost-effective Gripen aircraft are compatible with NATO is seen as an important gain for the Ukrainian air force. However, Sweden wants the integration of the F-16s to Ukraine to be completed first. Despite this, observing the Gripen performance in a real combat environment against the Russian threat could create a separate opportunity for Sweden and NATO. The general view of Europe is that Russia's aggression will not be limited to the "former Soviet geography" or "Warsaw Pact countries". Poland and the Baltic countries in particular see themselves as targets and have drawn attention to Russia’s historical expansionist tendencies. Ukrainian military intelligence claims that the Russian leadership is trying to establish an “empire” and that the target could extend to Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Bulgaria, respectively. In this process, the US’s stance and the issue of Europe strengthening its own defenses are of critical importance. In particular, the Donald Trump administration’s attempts to negotiate directly with Russia have drawn criticism due to the limited participation of Ukraine and European countries. While the possibility of a ceasefire or peace negotiations is on the agenda, Ukrainian society opposes an agreement that would de facto recognize the regions occupied by Russia. There are warnings that a forced ceasefire could create internal turmoil in the country and strengthen Russian influence. European countries, on the other hand, should focus on a common defense mechanism for a model that deters Russia. However, providing Ukraine with additional weapons systems and intelligence support may also require a strong military presence for deterrence in the long term. It is highly likely that Russia will regain its strength or continue its attacks. After the ceasefire, Europe must clarify its stance on Moscow’s potential demands—especially restrictions on nuclear and conventional weapons and military exercises. Baltic countries like Latvia are emphasizing their increased defense spending, both for historical reasons and because they share a direct border with Russia. As a result, the general consensus in Europe is that Ukraine’s sovereignty and security should be a priority in potential peace talks with Russia. Poland’s strengthening of border security, logistical support steps such as Starlink terminals, Sweden’s potential Gripen assistance, and EU countries’ inclinations to allocate more resources to defense all point to the same need: Europe’s ability to balance the US’s retreating leadership role and build its own deterrent against Russian expansion. In this context, supporting Ukraine is critical to ensuring that a potential ceasefire is sustainable and does not threaten European security. CHAPTER 1: Poland's Military Preparations and Operation “Eastern Shield” CHAPTER 2: Russia's “imperial” ambitions and threat to the former Warsaw Pact countries CHAPTER 3: Strengthening Infrastructure and Communications in Ukraine: Starlink Terminals and Their Importance CHAPTER 4: Europe's Defense Strategy: NATO, EU and National Measures CHAPTER 5: Western Arms Support to Ukraine: Gripen, F-16 and Logistic Needs CHAPTER 6: New Security Architecture in Europe: Defense Spending and Deterrence Package Baltic States' Increased Defense Preparations Against Russia.
youtube.com/watch?v=bg53... Poland says it has had enough of Russia! 👇👇👇
youtu.be/bg53zeOj5eE?...
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