Poland MoD: winter could be turning point in Ukraine war

Polish Deputy Defence Minister Cezary Tomczyk said on Monday, 14 September, that Russia's intensifying strikes on western Ukraine represent a direct test for NATO and carry serious risks for all of Europe. He warned that the winter season could prove a turning point in the war.

Russia's strategic aim

Tomczyk said Russia is seeking to cut Ukraine off from western supply routes by targeting infrastructure in Lviv, Ivano-Frankivsk and other western regions. The recent strike close to the Polish border underscored that Russia is willing to escalate near NATO territory. He added that Russian attacks on western Ukraine are an attempt to intimidate both Ukraine and its Western partners.

NATO and European risks

The minister stressed that NATO allies must not become accustomed to escalatory actions, as complacency would be seen by Moscow as tacit acceptance. Poland, which shares a border with both Ukraine and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad, has been on heightened alert and has strengthened border security in recent months.

Winter factor

Tomczyk noted that as winter approaches and Russian strikes on energy infrastructure intensify, Ukraine's ability to sustain both civilian life and military operations will be severely tested. He called on allies to accelerate deliveries of air defence systems and energy-sector support equipment before the heating season begins.