Poland Refuses Transfer of Patriot System to Ukraine, Citing National Defense Priorities

Poland has declined to approve the transfer of the American Patriot missile system, currently stationed on its territory, to Ukraine. Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk clarified on Twitter that Poland has not agreed to transfer its own Patriot battery, which is crucial for protecting Polish airspace.

Jacek Siewiera, the head of Poland’s National Security Bureau, echoed this sentiment, stating that the American Patriot installations in Poland should not be transferred to Ukraine. He expressed concern over media reports suggesting otherwise and has raised the issue with his US counterpart, Jake Sullivan. Siewiera emphasized Poland’s key role in supplying Ukraine with military aid and maintaining defense readiness on NATO’s eastern flank.

Previously, Polish President Andrzej Duda explained that Poland lacks the capacity to transfer the Patriot system as the country is only beginning to receive its ordered complexes. Prime Minister Donald Tusk reiterated this stance, stating that Poland does not have the reserves to transfer the system but pledged to assist Ukraine in strengthening its air defense through other means.