Ukraine-Poland Security Agreement

Kyiv has committed to exploring new ways of shooting down all Russian missiles and drones in Ukrainian airspace that are headed towards Poland in collaboration with Warsaw, as announced by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday.

Zelenskyy shared the news of the security agreement in a post, stating that the “unprecedented document” also includes the formation and training of a new volunteer Ukrainian military unit, the Ukrainian Legion, on Polish territory. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the solidarity, support, and assistance provided by Poland.

The Ukrainian leader held discussions with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk in Warsaw regarding Russia’s ongoing attacks on Ukraine and further support from NATO.

On Tuesday, NATO will convene its Washington summit, where leaders will deliberate on providing long-term security aid and military training for Ukraine, more than two years after Russia’s invasion.

The security talks followed Russian missile strikes that resulted in the deaths of at least 24 people in various locations in Ukraine, including a children’s hospital in the capital.

During the NATO summit, Poland will be represented by President Andrzej Duda, who is scheduled to meet with Zelenskyy later on Monday. Poland stands as one of the strongest supporters of Ukraine and is projected to allocate 4.12% of its GDP for defense this year, exceeding NATO’s guideline of 2%.

One of the initiatives expected to be approved at the three-day summit involves NATO taking on a greater role in coordinating training and providing military and financial assistance to Ukrainian forces, a responsibility currently held predominantly by the US. Additionally, European nations are contemplating granting Ukrainians an increased presence within NATO structures, although there is no unanimous decision yet on Ukraine’s potential accession to the alliance.