The US Aegis Ashore missile base in Redzikovo.Photo: Rmf24.
The recently opened US missile defence base in the Polish town of Redzikowo has become a major potential target for Russia, according to Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. She described the launch of the base as “an openly provocative step”, believing that its presence is part of NATO’s long-term strategy to bring military infrastructure closer to Russia’s borders. This was reported by the Time Ukraine Israelportal , citing Rmf24.
US accusations of ‘forceful pressure’ on Russia
Zakharova also accused the United States of “projecting American power” onto territories far from its borders. She argues that the main goal of this strategy is to exert forceful pressure on Russia and some other nuclear powers, thereby increasing the overall level of risk. According to her, in case of further increase in tensions, an attack on the Redzikovo base could be carried out with the use of advanced weapons, which further increases the risk of nuclear escalation.
Opening of the military base in Redzikovo. Photo: Adam Warżawa / PAP
Poland’s position: the facility is exclusively defensive in nature
In response to Zakharova’s statements, Polish Foreign Ministry spokesman Pawel Wronski stressed that the Redzikowo base has only defensive functions, designed to counter ballistic missiles from countries that often pursue aggressive policies and demonstrate hostile intentions. Wronski stressed that such threats from Russia are forcing NATO to consider strengthening air defence along its entire eastern flank. The Polish side is convinced that strengthening the security of the eastern borders is a critical issue that has support among both citizens and political forces in the country.
Possible expansion of the base and increased security of NATO’s eastern flank
Against the backdrop of repeated Russian statements, which Vronsky called “incorrect” and “groundless”, the Polish government is considering further expansion of the Redzikow base. Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz noted that rumours of nuclear weapons at the base are completely absurd. He also noted that if Russia’s aggressive rhetoric continues, NATO and the United States will be forced to take additional measures to protect their allies.
Opening of the military base in Redzikovo.Photo: Adam Warżawa / PAP
Redzikovo base: a new step in strengthening defence
The Redzikowo base was inaugurated on 13 November. The base is part of the European Phased Adaptive Approach (EPAA) programme, which aims to protect both the United States and its allies in Europe from possible ballistic missile attacks, including from Iran. The EPAA is a key component of NATO’s integrated air and missile defence system, which is designed to ensure long-term security in the region.
