Poland Won’t Send South Korean Weapons to Ukraine, Says President Duda: Prioritizing National Defense Amid Regional Threats

In a statement underscoring Poland’s defense priorities, President Andrzej Duda firmly clarified that the South Korean weapons Poland recently acquired will be used solely for its own defense. Speaking to the Polish media outlet RMF24, Duda emphasized that the $5.7 billion worth of South Korean tanks and howitzers were purchased to protect Polish citizens and would not be redirected to Ukraine despite the ongoing conflict with Russia.

“There is no scenario under consideration in which we hand over weapons, which we have recently purchased for billions of złoty from the pockets of our taxpayers, to anyone,” Duda stated. This sentiment reflects Poland's aim to prioritize its security while positioning itself as a strong regional power amid increased tensions in Eastern Europe.

Strengthening Defense Ties with South Korea

Duda’s remarks came during a four-day visit to South Korea, where he met with President Yoon Suk Yeol. The two leaders discussed Poland and South Korea’s long-term defense and economic cooperation, solidified by Poland's substantial defense contract with South Korean companies. This agreement, valued at around $5.7 billion, includes K2 Black Panther main battle tanks, K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzers, and K239 Chunmoo multiple launch rocket systems. These advanced weapons are part of Poland’s response to increased threats from Russia and its efforts to modernize its military capabilities to deter any potential aggression.

Ukraine Conflict and North Korean Involvement

While Poland has been a steadfast supporter of Ukraine, providing humanitarian and military aid since the conflict began, it is clear that these newly acquired South Korean weapons will not be part of that support. This position aligns with South Korea’s longstanding policy against directly supplying arms to Kyiv. However, during a press conference with President Duda, President Yoon hinted at a potential shift in policy, suggesting that if North Korea escalates its military involvement by actively supporting Russia with troops, Seoul might reconsider its stance on sending weapons to Ukraine.

This possibility comes amid reports that North Korean troops could be aiding Russia in the conflict, signaling a potentially significant escalation. Both leaders discussed the growing security challenges on the Korean Peninsula, including North Korea’s missile threats and the implications of its possible alliance with Russia, highlighting that while South Korea remains cautious about direct involvement, changing geopolitical dynamics could prompt a shift in its defense policies.

Poland’s Defense Strategy: Focused on Domestic Security

For Poland, the acquisition of South Korean weapons represents a substantial upgrade in defense capabilities. The K2 tanks and K9 howitzers, known for their precision and effectiveness, are critical additions to Poland's arsenal. These weapons enhance Poland’s self-sufficiency in defense, reducing its reliance on external support and enabling it to respond rapidly to threats along its eastern borders.

Amid the Ukraine conflict, Poland has consistently supplied weapons and aid to Kyiv, yet Duda’s comments signal that further involvement may have its limits, especially when it comes to newly acquired assets intended for national security. As Russia’s military actions continue to impact Europe, Poland appears committed to ensuring it is adequately prepared for any escalation close to home.

A Firm Stance on Defense Cooperation

President Duda’s visit also reinforced Poland’s commitment to strengthening its defense relationships with like-minded allies beyond Europe, such as South Korea. This cooperation aims to balance regional security in both Eastern Europe and East Asia, aligning Poland and South Korea in their shared stance against aggressive actions by Russia and North Korea. 

In the broader context, Poland’s position on its South Korean weaponry underscores its balanced approach: supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty while fortifying its defenses amid rising tensions in Europe. For now, Poland’s message remains clear: these weapons will stay in Poland, contributing directly to its security, while it continues to evaluate the shifting landscape of regional and global threats.