Polish President, Karol Nawrocki, has warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin may be prepared to target other nations after launching the war in Ukraine.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Finnish President Alexander Stubb in Helsinki on Tuesday, Nawrocki expressed deep skepticism about Moscow’s intentions.
“We do not trust Vladimir Putin’s good intentions,” he said.
Both Poland and Finland share borders with Russia and, as NATO members, have been on high alert since Moscow invaded Ukraine in 2022.
“While we hope for lasting peace in our region, we believe Vladimir Putin could also turn his aggression toward other countries,” Nawrocki stated.
He emphasized that this is why Poland is strengthening its military capabilities and deepening alliances, though he did not elaborate on specific measures.
The Polish leader also commented on the broader regional security landscape, noting that United States President, Donald Trump remains “the only leader of the free world” capable of compelling Putin to negotiate.
Last week, Trump welcomed Nawrocki to the White House with a military flyover and suggested sending additional troops to Poland.
Stubb, meanwhile, said he has been in regular contact with Trump in recent months as European nations seek ways to end the conflict in Ukraine.
“We try to explain that Putin cannot be trusted and is using his usual delay tactics,” Stubb explained.
The concerns echo remarks made by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who warned on Monday that Putin’s “imperialist plan” likely extends beyond Ukraine and could signal further territorial ambitions.