\n<\/p>\n
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on Wednesday assured NATO ally Poland that Germany’s Bundeswehr armed forces stand ready to defend its eastern neighbour.<\/p>\n
When asked in an interview with Germany’s Deutsche Welle and Polish broadcaster TVP whether Poland could rely on Germany’s help in the event of Russian aggression, Wadephul replied: “We will not hesitate for a second.”<\/p>\n
“If NATO territory is attacked – and, in case of doubt, this is only about Russia – then German soldiers will immediately defend every centimetre. That is a commitment. And that is completely clear,” he added.<\/p>\n
Wadephul emphasized the close partnership with Poland, which is also reflected in a military agreement signed on Wednesday. The two countries, he said, share a common task in defending Europe against the Russian threat. “We stand together. And we will not allow ourselves to be divided.”<\/p>\n
Responding to Poland’s fears of being sidelined in any potential negotiations with Russia on ending the war in Ukraine within the so-called E3 format – comprising Germany, France and the United Kingdom – Wadephul said that this format would not take a single step without Poland’s consent.<\/p>\n
According to the German government, the new military agreement emphasizes the commitment to mutual assistance within the framework of the European Union and NATO.<\/p>\n
Poland and Germany also intend to cooperate more closely on the development of military capabilities and in the defence industry. Furthermore, joint military exercises are to be held.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n