Putin's aide hints Russia could rope in Nato member Poland in Ukraine war

Russia’s Deputy Chairman of the Security Council, Dmitry Medvedev, has suggested the possibility of extending the ongoing invasion of Ukraine towards Poland, a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato).

This decision from Kremlin would depend on the type of weapons Ukraine receives from Western allies.

According to Russian state-owned news agency TASS, Medvedev said “Obviously, we need to create a buffer zone for the future to ensure that nothing flies in. Its size is anyone’s guess, but it should be sufficient. If they [Ukrainians] wish to get long-range means of attack, such as cruise and ballistic missiles, then this buffer zone should stretch as far as Poland.”

US to send Ukraine long-range cruise missiles

The comment from Medvedev comes just two days after Reuters, citing anonymous US officials, said that the United States is close to an agreement to give Ukraine long-range cruise missiles– specifically the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles (JASSM)– that could reach deep into Russia.

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Sending JASSMs to Ukraine could significantly alter the strategic landscape of the conflict by putting more of Russia in range of powerful, precision-guided munitions.

The source had suggested that Kyiv would have to wait several months as Washington works through technical issues ahead of any shipment.

Impact on Poland

Poland, prompted by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, has been beefing up its defences. The latest move involved Warsaw announcing new military deals worth $520 million.

Poland currently allocates 4 per cent of its gross defence product (GDP) to defence, the highest ratio of all Nato members. It aims to increase spending to 4.7 per cent next year, according to Al Jazeera.

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Warsaw has announced a deal to purchase hundreds of AIM-120C AMRAAM air-to-air missiles and a contract for 48 launchers for US-designed Patriot air defense systems.

Can Nato get involved in the conflict?

Poland has been a member of Nato since 1999. Under Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty, an attack on one Nato member is considered an attack on all members.

This collective defence principle would likely prompt a response from Nato, including military support to Poland, if Russia were to violate Polish territory or engage in any military action that threatens it.

With inputs from agencies