Redzikowo in Poland stands firm despite Russian missile threats
The mayor of the Redzikowo commune told us that the residents have become accustomed to the threats made by Russian officials. Recently, they threatened that the renowned American missile defence base would be "added to the list of priority targets for potential destruction."
- We consider the American base a good neighbour, and Russian threats won't change that. There is no panic, nor can there be. Certain concerns linger in the back of our minds. However, we are aware that these statements are propagandistic in nature - said Barbara Dykier, the mayor of the Redzikowo commune.
Next to the town lies an American Air Force missile defence base and NATO European infrastructure.
Russian threats for over 15 years
The mayor recalled that Russia used the same threats at various stages of the installation's development, starting from 2008 (the date the international agreement was signed). - I remember this from as far back as 2008; I worked in the office then. Of course, today we are concerned about the geopolitical situation. A war is happening right beyond the Polish border. However, as a community, we have moved past the information campaign and discussions about our safety. The mayor added that Redzikowo is the safest place in Poland, protected by NATO forces and systems.
She emphasised that she regularly talks with the base commander, but their conversations are about cooperation, not security. - As neighbours, we are closely bonded. Especially the residents closest to the base have developed a certain military character - summarised the mayor.
The Kremlin doesn't relent on the base issue
As we have already reported, Russian officials have recently increased threats related to NATO infrastructure in Redzikowo. A few days ago, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated that the newly opened missile defence base "has been added to the list of priority targets for potential destruction." She added that the installation raises the level of nuclear threat.
At the same time, Vladimir Putin approved changes to the nuclear deterrence doctrine, which involve reducing the threat threshold at which Russia might use nuclear weapons. According to the doctrine, the base's operation in Redzikowo may be perceived by Russians as "the encroachment of hostile military infrastructure towards the borders of the Russian Federation (...), which can evolve into a military threat."
A voice from Washington. "Joe Biden is rock solid"
John Kirby, spokesperson for the US National Security Council, addressed the Redzikowo issue. He confirmed that the American side does not underestimate Russian threats regarding an attack on Polish territory. - We have seen these comments, and obviously, such threats must be taken seriously, and we do. Regardless of how reckless and irresponsible they are, we, of course, take them seriously - he assured.
- President Biden is rock solid on this issue. We will do everything in our power to ensure the safety of our soldiers on the European continent. And just as importantly, we take our commitments to NATO allies extremely seriously. This is undeniable, and it will not change - Kirby declared.
