Poland Does Not Want Allied Nuclear Weapons on Its Territory

Poland has firmly stated that it does not wish to host allied nuclear weapons on its territory, a position articulated by Deputy Minister of Defense Paweł Zalewski. Speaking at NATO headquarters in Brussels, Zalewski clearly stated, "I would like to say very clearly and openly: Poland does not want to have nuclear warheads on its territory."

Zalewski further clarified Poland's stance on nuclear deterrence, explaining, "We want to participate in NATO nuclear deterrence, which does not mean we have nuclear warheads on our territory." This declaration marks the most definitive statement from Warsaw on the matter to date, aiming to quell any ambiguity regarding its nuclear policy.

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I would like to say very clearly and openly: Poland does not want to have nuclear warheads on its territory.

While Poland has previously expressed skepticism about the deployment of nuclear weapons within its borders, its position has evolved. The country has been engaged in initial discussions with the United States regarding the potential expansion of American nuclear deterrence in Europe. Concurrently, Poland has joined a French initiative aimed at enhancing Paris's own deterrence capabilities in Europe.

Adding another layer to the discussion, Polish President Karol Nawrocki has previously left the door open to the possibility of Warsaw eventually developing its own nuclear weapons program. However, the current emphasis from the Ministry of Defense is on participating in collective deterrence without becoming a host nation for nuclear warheads.

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We want to participate in NATO nuclear deterrence, which does not mean we have nuclear warheads on our territory.