German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on Wednesday assured NATO ally Poland that Germany's Bundeswehr armed forces stand ready to defend its eastern neighbour.
When asked in an interview with Germany's Deutsche Welle and Polish broadcaster TVP whether Poland could rely on Germany's help in the event of Russian aggression, Wadephul replied: "We will not hesitate for a second."
"If NATO territory is attacked - and, in case of doubt, this is only about Russia - then German soldiers will immediately defend every centimetre. That is a commitment. And that is completely clear," he added.
Wadephul emphasized the close partnership with Poland, which is also reflected in a military agreement signed on Wednesday. The two countries, he said, share a common task in defending Europe against the Russian threat. "We stand together. And we will not allow ourselves to be divided."
Responding to Poland's fears of being sidelined in any potential negotiations with Russia on ending the war in Ukraine within the so-called E3 format - comprising Germany, France and the United Kingdom - Wadephul said that this format would not take a single step without Poland's consent.
According to the German government, the new military agreement emphasizes the commitment to mutual assistance within the framework of the European Union and NATO.
Poland and Germany also intend to cooperate more closely on the development of military capabilities and in the defence industry. Furthermore, joint military exercises are to be held.
