PM Kopacz: I will definitely not go to Moscow

“I will definitely not be travelling to Moscow,” PM Kopacz told broadcaster Polsat in reply to comments by several Western politicians who confirmed their attendence.

"I will be staying here, in the country,” Kopacz added.

Russia will be organising a military parade to commemorate 70 years since the end of World War II. The parade is organised every year, but this year's round-anniversary edition is said to be more significant.

The decision not to attend mirrors a similar decision by other heads of state, such as Moldova President, Nicolae Timofti, and is widely considered a rebuff due to the West's increasing animosity with the Kremlin.

Much of PM Kopacz's Wednesday interview with Polsat was dedicated to the issue of national defence.

Earlier in the day, President Bronisław Komorowski signed a bill for defending the country in case of war.

Poland is part of NATO, but voices have been raised in recent weeks that if the conflict extends out of Ukraine into Poland, the Alliance might have its hands tied, and not be able to help Poland immediately.

“We feel that we are not alone, but security is not only about alliances, it is also the strength of our economy. As long as we are a serious [trade] partner, then we can count on the fact that those who have their own interests here will defend our country,” PM Kopacz said. (rg)