For us, Poland is much more than just a neighbour. Poland is a close partner and friend with whom we stand shoulder to shoulder to defend Europe’s freedom. In the past weeks, we have clearly seen once again the extent to which the security of our countries is interconnected. Whatever threatens Poland also threatens us. Whatever protects Poland also protects us.

In my talks with my Polish colleague Radek Sikorski I will therefore focus particularly on our bilateral security cooperation, ranging from patriot systems in Rzeszów to closer coordination on the protection of critical infrastructure. With every step that Germany and Poland take together, we strengthen our joint preparedness.

Another issue I wish to discuss in Warsaw is a new, revived role for the Weimar Triangle. This format, which was launched by the foreign ministers of Germany, Poland and France in 1991, shortly after the fall of the Iron Curtain, is a model of European cohesion. This cohesion is more vital than ever against the backdrop of Russia’s recent behaviour.

For us as partners in the Weimar Triangle it is clear that Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine remains the greatest security challenge facing Europe. That is why we will also meet with our Ukrainian colleague Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha in Warsaw and discuss how we can continue to support the Ukrainians in their fight for peace. For whoever strengthens Ukraine protects Europe. Any measure that makes Ukraine’s defence more capable is also an investment in safe skies over Warsaw, Tallinn and Berlin.

Russia’s repeated violations of NATO airspace in Poland, Estonia and other places are not accidents but deliberate attacks in a grey area. They form part of Putin’s hybrid aggression. Such provocations are highly dangerous and have just one goal: to test our resolve.

Our response to that is clear: we stand together, we will keep a cool head and we will not allow ourselves to be provoked into escalation. At the same time, we will leave no one in any doubt that we are determined and prepared to join forces to ward off any threat.