The tension between Germany and Poland over the possible delivery from Berlin of the “Patriot” missile defense systems to Warsaw in connection with the conflict in Ukraine undermines the cohesion of NATO and the EUcommented the New York Times.
The newspaper pointed out that the problems between Berlin and Warsaw stem from a German offer to supply Poland with Patriot systems, which the Polish side initially accepted.
After though Warsaw insists on deploying batteries in western Ukraine, which is unacceptable for Germany, as “the systems will be operated by NATO personnel.” After “considerable Allied concern and public criticism” the Polish side he seems to have accepted the offer againthe newspaper said.
On Wednesday, Reuters quoted a German defense official as saying Berlin and Warsaw had reached an agreement on deploying Patriot systems on Polish soil.
On November 21, German Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht offered Poland security support, including Patriot batteries, to which Warsaw responded positively.
Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak later suggested that the FRG deploy the batteries in western Ukraine; Lambrecht refused. German authorities have repeatedly stated their refusal to supply arms to Kiev without consulting their partners.
