Polish foreign minister Radosław Sikorski stated that protecting NATO's eastern flank from potential Russian aggressive actions would require a significant investment of at least €1.2 trillion. This amount represents a striking twenty-four times Poland's own defense budget, highlighting the enormity of the financial commitment needed to ensure security in the region. In his comments to parliament, Sikorski emphasized that the financial implications of such defense measures are critical in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Sikorski's remarks came at a time when NATO member states are grappling with their roles and responsibilities in the face of Russian threats. He contrasted the anticipated costs of defending against aggressions—which he likened to the nearly €200 billion that the EU has provided to Ukraine since the start of the invasion in 2022. He stressed that maintaining a free Ukraine is essential for diminishing the threat posed by Russian imperialism, suggesting that a unified West must invest heavily in defense preparedness to counteract Russia's perceived expansionist ambitions.

Moreover, Sikorski acknowledged the positive impact of Ukrainian migrants and refugees on Poland's economy, noting their contribution since the onset of the war. By highlighting these economic ties, he reinforced the narrative that supporting Ukraine is not only a strategic necessity but also beneficial for neighboring countries like Poland, which stand to gain economically from a stable and free neighbor. His statement underscores the interconnectedness of defense, economic stability, and regional security in the ongoing geopolitical landscape.