NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Wednesday praised Poland's commitment to defense spending during a press event in Warsaw, noting that Poland's military budget now approaches 4.7% of its GDP—the highest of any NATO ally.

This commitment is said to be in line with Poland's broader "East Shield" deterrence strategy to reinforce its borders with Russia and Belarus in response to escalating regional tensions.

Earlier in the day, Rutte and Polish President Andrzej Duda attended the opening of a new US-NATO missile defense base, Aegis Ashore, in the northern Polish city of Redzikowo.

Just 102 miles from the Russian border, this base represents a significant investment in NATO's missile defense system, designed to intercept and neutralize threats from the east.

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Today, @NATO leaders gathered to celebrate the new Aegis Ashore Missile Defense System’s ribbon cutting for the transfer of authority to #NATO at Naval Support Facility Redzikowo, Poland.

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— U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet (@USNavyEurope) November 13, 2024

Poland's 'East Shield' defense plan

Poland's East Shield program aims to secure its eastern borders through an investment of over €2 billion, with the project slated for completion between 2024 and 2028.

The plan includes advanced fortifications and surveillance along its border with Russia and Belarus, ensuring an "impenetrable" line of defense.

Rutte welcomed this initiative as a model for regional defense, noting that Poland is setting a new standard for NATO with its substantial investment in security.

Read more: NATO air defense capacity needed to protect eastern flank stands at 5%

The secretary-general also recognized Poland's collaborative efforts with the Baltic States and Finland to enhance border security, further stressing NATO's coordinated response to the evolving security landscape in Eastern Europe.

Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed the country's commitment, stating that Poland would continue to prioritize defense spending to solidify its borders against potential threats from Russia.

Regional Implications and Russia's Response

Poland's intensified focus on military preparedness comes as NATO countries increase troop deployments, military training, and hardware positioning on the alliance's eastern flank.

Following the start of the Ukraine war, NATO members have heightened their defensive capabilities, placing additional ships, planes, helicopters, and troops in the region and putting forces on high alert.

Russia has repeatedly voiced concerns over NATO's expansion near its borders, describing the buildup as a threat to its security.

The Russian Foreign Ministry has stated its readiness to discuss de-escalation with NATO, but only under terms that respect mutual interests and avoid further militarization of Europe.

Moscow maintains that a balanced approach is essential to prevent increased regional instability.

Read more: NATO may deploy troops to Ukraine if Trump cuts support: Ex-UK PM