Russia threatens Poland. The reason is the base in Redzikowo
The spokeswoman of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Maria Zakharova, announced that the opening of the American anti-missile base in Redzikowo increases the “nuclear threat level.” “This is empty talk,” concluded Gen. Roman Polko.
In recent days, there has been an escalation of tensions between Russia and Poland in connection with the opening of the American anti-missile defense base in Redzikowo. In response to the opening of the base, Maria Zakharova stated that it was a “provocative step” that destabilized the situation in the region and “leads to an increased level of nuclear threat.” She also added that the base had been included on the list of priority targets for potential destruction by Russia.
General Roman Polko, former commander of the GROM unit and former deputy head of the National Security Bureau, commented on Russia’s threats as “mere empty talk” and “downright ritualistic threats.” He emphasized that facilities such as the base in Redzikowo have always been and will be targeted by foreign troops, which is obvious in the military strategy. He also added that the base is effectively protected and there is no reason for local residents to worry.
On November 13, 2024, a ceremonial opening ceremony of the American missile defense base took place in Redzikowo, Pomeranian Voivodeship. The event was attended by President Andrzej Duda, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, Minister of Foreign Affairs Radosław Sikorski and the US ambassador to Poland, Mark Brzezinski.
President Duda emphasized the importance of the base for the security of Poland and NATO, stating that “the whole world will see clearly and clearly that this is no longer the Russian sphere of influence.”
The position of the Polish authorities
The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented by spokesman Paweł Wroński, emphasized that the installation in Redzikowo is purely defensive in nature and does not pose a threat to Russia. Wroński emphasized that in the face of repeated Russian threats, NATO will have to strengthen the air defense of the eastern flank.
The importance of the base in Redzikowo
The base in Redzikowo is part of the American Aegis Ashore missile defense system, designed to protect the United States and European allies against ballistic missiles. Its construction began in 2016, and the official opening took place in November 2024. The base constitutes an important element of NATO’s European infrastructure and is one of the key anti-missile defense points in the region.
Future prospects
The opening of the base in Redzikowo and Russia’s reactions indicate growing tensions in the region. Poland, as a NATO member, continues to cooperate with allies to strengthen its security. At the same time, threats from Russia are taken seriously, but with an appropriate dose of skepticism, given their repetitive nature.
