The geopolitical situation in East and Central Europe is rapidly changing. One of the main threats for Poland and the Baltic States is the hypermilitarization of the Russian enclave Kaliningrad. ECPM MEP Marek Jurek pleas for a demilitarization of Kaliningrad, together with Polish MEP Kazimierz Michal Ujazdowski.

Since the new President of the United States, Donald Trump, outlined a rather isolationist policy when it comes to foreign policy it is vital that the EU and NATO take a clear and strong stance on defending the borders of countries as Poland and the Baltic States. In November of last year, this issue became more imminent as Russia deployed new state-of-the-art missiles that were used in Syria as well.

Any lingering on the issue of Russian missiles, being aimed at Eastern European countries, will only increase tension in the region. If NATO and EU Members consider it normal for Eastern European countries to be directly threatened by Russian missiles, then Eastern European security is seriously threatened. Instead of lingering we need an approach that is both inventive and courageous. A solution aimed at a demilitarization of Kaliningrad is clearly the best option. This could be reached by offering special international guarantees, confirming the sovereignty of the Russian enclave, in return. Until such an agreement has been reached the military strengthening of the north-eastern border of Poland is vital.

Recent history has proven that Russian aggression towards bordering countries is a reality and it is naïve and dangerous to conclude that it will not use its military means to expand its influence or territory. Therefore, the EU and NATO must stand with Poland and the Baltic States to ensure security and stability in the region.

Read the full article of MEP’s Jurek and Ujazdowski here. For an English translation, please click here.