During the GLOBSEC security forum in Prague on May 22, 2026, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski stated that Russia currently does not possess the capability to launch a large-scale offensive against NATO. However, he warned that Moscow may resort to sabotage or provocations.
Sikorski’s remarks were shared by the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs on social media platform X. He emphasized that if Russia were preparing for a significant attack, it would be evident through satellite reconnaissance, citing the previous buildup of 100,000 troops around Ukraine as an example.
“Russia is currently unable to conduct a large-scale offensive against NATO, and if it were preparing for such an action, we would see it—our satellite intelligence confirms this. We observed the concentration of troops around Ukraine that grew over months,” Sikorski stated.
He further highlighted that Russia poses a serious threat to Poland, urging a cautious approach. Sikorski noted that the intentions of Russian President Vladimir Putin have proven to be more severe than previously anticipated in Western Europe, prompting NATO to take the situation seriously.
“Russia is capable of conducting diversionary activities or provocations that do not reach the level of a full invasion. NATO must also be prepared for such actions,” he added.
Additionally, Sikorski remarked on Putin’s misunderstanding of democratic psychology, suggesting that the Russian leader believes disagreements and debates indicate division and weakness among Western nations.
“However, he fails to see that when we recognize someone is lying or poses a threat, we can act together and decisively. Over the past five years, we have implemented 20 packages of sanctions, allocated tens of billions of euros to support Ukraine, provided weaponry, and reinforced our own defense capabilities. All of this makes Russia weaker compared to us, not stronger,” Sikorski concluded.
Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski asserted that Russia is currently unable to initiate a large-scale offensive against NATO, though it may engage in provocations. He emphasized the need for NATO to remain vigilant and prepared for potential Russian sabotage activities.