Poland’s support for Ukraine will enhance its standing

Significance

Germany had refused to grant permission to re-export the German-built MBTs at a meeting of Western supporters of Ukraine at the US Ramstein airbase on January 20. Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said Poland would go ahead without that permission provided that a "small coalition" of countries joined it.

Impacts

• Poland’s leadership on this issue and commitment to Ukraine will increase pressure on Berlin to supply offensive weapons.
• Western countries will avoid isolation when taking a stand against Russia.
• Without re-export permission, Germany might refuse to supply spare parts.