Poland is clear about participating in NATO’s nuclear deterrent: “We might be willing to expand our participation and cooperation in NATO’s nuclear deterrent and take responsibility,” said Jacek Siewiera, presidential security adviser. But stationing nuclear weapons is “something else”.
A few days ago, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that he wanted to station nuclear weapons in Belarus – a country bordering Poland. NATO countries such as the US and Germany reacted calmly. The US has stationed nuclear weapons in several European countries, including Germany, for decades. Up to 20 bombs are said to be stored at Büchel airbase in the Rhineland-Palatinate-Eifel. Tornado fighter jets are also stationed there, which should use the weapons in case of an emergency.
In NATO jargon this is called “nuclear sharing”. So far, Poland has only been involved in consultations, for example in NATO’s nuclear planning group, which meets in great secrecy. Siewiera did not say exactly how he envisions a stronger participation. However, he pointed out that nuclear sharing includes aircraft that can carry “special weapons”.
Shown interest in sharing nuclear energy
As early as October, Polish President Andrzej Duda announced his fundamental interest in greater participation in NATO’s nuclear deterrent. At the time it was clear that stationing nuclear weapons on Polish soil was an option for him.
When asked if Poland wanted nuclear weapons on its territory to feel more secure, Siewiera said: “It’s not about feelings, it’s about calculations. There are already plenty of nuclear weapons in Europe in the context of nuclear sharing.”
About 100 American nuclear bombs scattered in Europe
In addition to Germany, American nuclear weapons are also said to be stored in the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy and Turkey. According to expert estimates, there should be about 100 more in total. The bombs have an explosive power of up to 50 kilotons – about 13 times that of the first US atomic bomb, which almost completely destroyed the Japanese city of Hiroshima in 1945. Two other NATO countries, Britain and France, have their own nuclear weapons.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
