Poland’s Sikorski wants Ukrainian combat veterans in new European force
Sikorsky called on the EU to create a European Legion (Photo: Radoslav Sikorsky / Facebook)
Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski has called for the creation of a permanent European Union military force, a “European Legion,” that could recruit Ukrainian soldiers with combat experience after the war against Russia ends.
Sikorski made the proposal in an interview with Ekathimerini, arguing that the European Union needs deeper military integration and its own stronger defense capabilities.
“I strongly advocate the creation of a European Legion — a dedicated, permanent force that could recruit experienced professionals from the wider European family, including battle-hardened Ukrainian veterans after the war,” Sikorski said.
The Polish foreign minister said Europe must take greater responsibility for its own security and should not rely exclusively on U.S. assistance during future crises.
At the same time, Sikorski stressed that such a force should not serve as an alternative to NATO or duplicate the alliance’s functions.
Instead, he described it as a way to strengthen the European pillar within NATO.
“The United States remains the indispensable anchor of our collective defense, but its role is changing,” Sikorski said. “America will continue to provide unmatched technological and intelligence capabilities, but Europe must do the heavy lifting on the ground.”
Poland holds largest military parade in its history
Poland held a major military parade on Aug. 15 to mark Polish Armed Forces Day, with Warsaw describing it as the largest such event in the country’s history.
The parade showcased Poland’s land, naval and air capabilities amid growing security concerns over Russia.
Service members from the United States, Canada, Australia, Lithuania, Estonia, Sweden, Romania and other countries also participated.
France provided the largest allied contingent, including a unit from the French Foreign Legion.
Ukrainian representatives, however, were not invited to the parade.
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