WASHINGTON—A senior Polish security official has revealed plans for a new joint training center in Poland, established by NATO in collaboration with Ukraine. Jacek Siewiera, the head of Poland’s National Security Bureau, explained during the NATO summit in Washington that the center would ideally offer military training opportunities to Ukrainian civilians residing abroad who are willing to return home and join the fight against Russia.

With Russia significantly boosting its military forces amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Siewiera emphasized the need for Ukraine to bolster its defenses and recruit more personnel. The joint training center, located in Bydgoszcz, Poland, aims to enhance NATO’s support for Ukraine in light of concerns about Russia’s military expansion and the uncertainty surrounding U.S. assistance under a potential new administration.

The center is designed not only to provide NATO member countries with valuable insights into combatting Russian forces, including the use of civilian drones on the battlefield, but also to train Ukrainian volunteers eager to defend their country. Siewiera highlighted the importance of preparing these volunteers, acknowledging the millions abroad willing to stand by Ukraine’s side in the face of Russian aggression.

Furthermore, Siewiera advocated for Ukraine’s right to utilize weapons received from NATO allies against Russian military targets within Russia, a stance that contrasts with the Biden administration’s cautious approach due to concerns about escalating tensions. He emphasized that once weapons are in Ukraine’s possession, it should be the country’s prerogative to decide how to employ them in defense against Russia.