Strengthening Alliance: The New UK-Poland Defence and Security Treaty
In a significant move to bolster European security, the United Kingdom and Poland have announced the launch of negotiations for a new Defence and Security Treaty. This agreement builds on their long-standing cooperation and previous agreements, including the 2017 Defence Treaty, and is driven by the escalating threats to European security, particularly from Russian aggression and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Political Context and Background
The UK and Poland have a historical alliance that dates back to before World War II, and this new treaty is a continuation of their commitment to mutual security and cooperation. The current geopolitical landscape, marked by Russian aggression and the conflict in Ukraine, has underscored the need for stronger alliances among European nations.
"We met in Warsaw to discuss our close partnership and shared vision for our bilateral and international cooperation," said UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk in a joint statement. "We reaffirmed our unshakeable support for NATO and discussed a broad range of shared global challenges, including how to shore up European security in the face of an increasingly aggressive Russia."[1]
This new treaty is part of a broader strategy to enhance security ties and cooperation between the UK and its European allies, especially in the wake of Brexit. The UK has been actively seeking to deepen its post-Brexit relationships with key European partners, including recent agreements with France and Germany.
Key Stakeholder Positions
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has been a strong advocate for strengthening the UK's alliances to address the growing security threats in Europe. During his recent visit to Poland, he emphasized the need to "take our partnership to the next level" to tackle shared threats such as Russian aggression, people smuggling, and hybrid threats.
"The UK and Poland are longstanding allies and our co-operation stretches back for generations. With ever-increasing threats to Europe’s security, now is the time to take our partnership to the next level, so we can ensure we’re tackling the big issues that rebound on the British people at home – from Putin’s aggression to the vile people smuggling gangs trading in human misery."[4]
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has also highlighted the importance of the UK-Poland alliance and the need for closer cooperation to address common security challenges. Tusk emphasized Poland's role in supporting Ukraine and the shared views with the UK on Russia's aggression.
Polish President Andrzej Duda
Polish President Andrzej Duda welcomed the launch of negotiations on the new treaty, emphasizing the strength and endurance of the UK-Poland relationship. His support underscores the bipartisan commitment in Poland to strengthening ties with the UK.
Policy Implications
Military Cooperation
The new treaty aims to increase military cooperation between the UK and Poland to protect Europe from Russian aggression, combat disinformation, and address hybrid threats. This includes joint projects such as the MIECZNIK AH140 Frigate Programme and the NAREW Ground Based Air Defence Programme.
- Joint Training Exercises: The treaty will see an increase in the intensity and frequency of joint training exercises to enhance interoperability between the UK and Polish militaries.
- Defence Capability: The agreement will focus on building the next generation of capabilities for the armed forces of both countries, including the development and manufacture of complex weapons[3].
Defence Industrial Cooperation
A key component of the treaty is the establishment of a new UK-Poland Joint Programme Office in the UK, planned to be set up in the middle of 2025. This office will support the £4 billion bilateral agreement for the next generation of the short-range air defence system NAREW.
- NAREW Programme: The NAREW programme involves collaboration between UK firm MBDA and Polish defence company PGZ, highlighting the deepening defence industrial relationship between the two countries[1].
- Economic Benefits: This cooperation is expected to support hundreds of jobs across the UK and contribute to economic growth in both countries.
Migration and Border Security
The treaty includes strategies to tackle irregular migration, a critical issue for both countries. This involves:
- Strategic Border Security Dialogue: Establishing a strategic border security and migration dialogue to focus on tackling the threat from migrant smuggling networks and increasing data sharing.
- Best Practices: Sharing best practices to address the instrumentalisation of migrants through Belarus and Russia, and supporting the role of sanctions as a tool to tackle irregular migration and organised immigration crime[1].
Energy and Infrastructure Security
The UK and Poland will also work together to secure energy supplies and protect critical infrastructure, addressing another key area of shared concern.
- Energy Security: Ensuring stable and secure energy supplies is crucial in the face of geopolitical tensions.
- Infrastructure Protection: Protecting critical infrastructure from cyber and physical threats is a priority under the new treaty[1].
Public Reaction and Polling
While specific polling data on the new treaty is not yet available, the general public reaction in both the UK and Poland is likely to be positive given the historical alliance and shared security concerns. The emphasis on tackling people smuggling and securing energy supplies, which are issues of public concern, may further enhance public support for the treaty.
International Relations Impact
Support for Ukraine
The treaty reinforces the UK and Poland's commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression. This includes military support, training, and reconstruction efforts, aligning with broader international efforts to support Ukraine.
"We agreed to continue joint support to Ukraine, including military support, training and reconstruction. Together we will work to tackle Russia’s hybrid attacks, including in cyberspace, take joint action to counter information manipulation, and deepen collaboration on extending sanctions against Putin’s regime."[1]
NATO and EU Cooperation
The agreement strengthens the UK's ties with NATO and the EU, particularly in security and economic spheres, despite the UK's post-Brexit status. This cooperation is crucial for addressing shared security challenges and promoting stability in Europe.
- NATO Commitment: The treaty underscores the commitment of both countries to NATO and their role in defending the Eastern Flank of the alliance[3].
- EU Cooperation: The UK and Poland will continue to work closely with the EU, especially during Poland's presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2025[1].
Russian Relations
The treaty is likely to be seen as a significant move against Russian interests, given the explicit focus on countering Russian aggression and hybrid attacks. This could lead to increased tensions between the UK, Poland, and Russia.
Future Political Scenarios
Deepening Post-Brexit Ties
The treaty marks a significant step in the UK's efforts to deepen its post-Brexit ties with the EU, particularly in security and economic areas, without rejoining the customs union or single market. This move highlights the UK's commitment to maintaining strong relationships with European allies despite its departure from the EU.
Potential for 'Breturn' to EU
While Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has expressed hope for a 'Breturn' of the UK to the EU, this is not a current policy goal for the UK government. However, the treaty could pave the way for closer integration in specific areas, potentially setting a precedent for future cooperation.
Enhanced Regional Security
The treaty is expected to enhance regional security by strengthening the UK-Poland alliance and promoting cooperation on key security issues. This could set a precedent for other European countries to strengthen their bilateral security agreements.
Economic Implications
The treaty includes significant economic components, such as the £4 billion partnership for the NAREW programme and other investments. These agreements are expected to support thousands of jobs and contribute to economic growth in both countries.
Conclusion
The new Defence and Security Treaty between the UK and Poland represents a robust response to the growing security threats in Europe, particularly from Russian aggression. It underscores the commitment of both nations to deepen their military, economic, and security cooperation, while also addressing critical issues such as migration and energy security.
This treaty is not just a bilateral agreement but a strategic move that has broader implications for regional security, international relations, and the future of UK-EU cooperation. As the UK and Poland move forward with this new treaty, they are setting a strong foundation for a more secure and cooperative Europe in the face of emerging challenges.
In the words of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, "It is only through closer collaboration with our most important partners such as Poland that we’ll protect the UK’s national security – the key foundation on which I’ll deliver my Plan for Change."[4] This sentiment encapsulates the essence of the new treaty and the enduring alliance between the UK and Poland.
