Deputy Minister Jabłoński observed that Russia’s activity continues to have the hallmarks of an escalation, opting for the EU to quickly come up with agreed sanctions options in coordination with external partners. The options must be prepared without delay in order to possibly deter Russia from further aggressive measures. “We should consider different likely scenarios, but the sanctions have to be unavoidable, afflictive, and potentially imminent in order for the EU to maintain credibility,” said the deputy minister, calling for an urgent increase in the EU’s support for Ukraine that would translate into the latter country’s enhanced resilience.

Poland’s deputy foreign minister made a point that diplomacy must be pursued alongside deterrence. In its capacity as OSCE Chair, Poland proposed to open an informal political dialogue on security in Europe. The deputy minister highlighted that support from allies in the EU and NATO is indispensable for the process to be effective.

Putting the situation at the EU’s eastern borders in a broader context, Minister Jabłoński emphasised Russia’s evidently growing military presence in Belarus, increased on the pretext of military exercise. He also pointed out that the Lukashenko regime continues to repress Belarusians – and Poles in Belarus – with about a thousand people still in custody for political reasons. The minister noted that the constitutional referendum being prepared by A. Lukashenko will not be democratic in character, while the works on the new constitution have not involved representatives of the civil society.

Taking the floor on Syria, Deputy Minister Jabłoński voiced support for the efforts of UN’s Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen and made a point that all parties must engage substantially in the political talks aimed at solving the conflict. He expressed concern over how it would affect the security in Europe and be reflected in the influx of migrants if the current situation in Syria persists. The deputy minister informed that Poland is arranging a transport of medicines and medical equipment for Syria in response to an appeal by the World Health Organization.

When discussing the case of Libya, Minister Jabłoński highlighted that Poland supports the measures taken to restore peace in the country. He expressed disappointment that the elections meant to decide on new Libyan authorities were rescheduled. The minister added that further delay in the democratic process will bring about negative consequences and that all efforts must be made for the elections to be properly prepared. Deputy Minister Jabłoński also said that all foreign forces and mercenaries must be withdrawn from Libya in order for the country to regain peace and be rebuilt.

MFA Press Office

photo: Sebastian Indra / MFA