Director for security and defence policy at the EEAS. Diplomat. Former Representative of Poland in the PSC. Views are my own. RTs to increase awaresness
Joined August 2019
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Maciej Stadejek retweeted
In 1942, a group of Polish soldiers marching through Iran met a young boy carrying a sack.
Inside was a tiny bear cub.
They bought it from him. Reportedly for some tins of food, a little chocolate, and a pocketknife.
That bear went on to serve in the Polish army, fight in one of the bloodiest battles of the war, and earn the rank of corporal.
His name was Wojtek.
The soldiers who adopted him had already been through hell. They were Poles who had been deported by the Soviets to labor camps after 1939. When Germany invaded the Soviet Union, they were released to form a new Polish army, and they marched out through Iran into the Middle East.
Most of them had lost their homes, their families, their country. And now they had a bear.
They fed him condensed milk out of an old vodka bottle. He slept with the soldiers in their tents. When he got bigger, he wrestled with them for fun. He learned to salute. He liked beer. He liked cigarettes too, though he ate them instead of smoking them.
He went with the unit through Iraq, Syria, Palestine, and Egypt. In one popular story, he even caught an intruder sneaking around the camp's shower hut and terrified him into getting caught.
Then in 1944 the unit was ordered to Italy. There was a problem. Animals weren't allowed on the ships.
So the soldiers enlisted him.
Wojtek was officially made a private in the Polish army, with his own name, rank, and serial number. On paper he was just another soldier in the 22nd Artillery Supply Company.
That spring, the Polish Second Corps was thrown into the Battle of Monte Cassino, one of the brutal battles of the Italian campaign.
According to the soldiers who were there, Wojtek watched the men carrying heavy crates of artillery shells up to the guns. Then he started copying them. Picking up crates and carrying them. Under fire. Without dropping one.
The story spread. The unit made a new official badge, a bear carrying an artillery shell.
He was later promoted to corporal.
When the war ended, Poland fell under Soviet control. Many of the men in Wojtek's unit couldn't go home. They'd already been in Soviet labor camps once. In 1946 they were brought to Scotland instead, and Wojtek came with them.
He lived at their camp, became a local celebrity, and even swam in the river.
When the unit was disbanded, Wojtek went to Edinburgh Zoo. For years afterward, Polish veterans visited him. They spoke to him in Polish and tossed him cigarettes through the bars. He reportedly perked up whenever he heard the language.
He died in 1963.
Today there are statues of Wojtek in Edinburgh, in Poland, and elsewhere.
A bear that started life in a sack ended up as a corporal in the army of a country that no longer existed in the form he served it.
Maciej Stadejek retweeted
Stars shine whether anyone is watching or not. Reliability works the same way.
Keeping Ukrainian exports moving. Supporting credible elections. Countering information manipulation. Training security forces. Delivering humanitarian aid. Being present through 145 EU Delegations.
#ReliableEU
Maciej Stadejek retweeted
Thank you, Mr. Kushner. Those five principles are important. However, Moscow subscribed to these principles in documents signed in 1975 (Helsinki Final Act) and 1990 (Charter of Paris).
The problem isn't agreeing to principles, but Moscow's failure to abide by them. 🧵 /1
President Trump today advanced an important discussion with several European leaders about the need for a broader European security architecture that can help establish the conditions for lasting peace.
Building on his leadership and the substantive work undertaken this week in Brussels with Ukraine, NATO, and our European partners, @SEPeaceMissions and I wanted to share some of the objectives guiding our ongoing discussions.
For more than 30 years, Europe and Russia have struggled to establish a sustainable security framework. Decades of mistrust, competing security concerns, and the devastating consequences of this war make this an extraordinarily difficult challenge, but one that is essential to lasting peace.
Our objective is to develop practical arrangements that address the security concerns of all sides, reduce the risk of future conflict, and create a more stable and predictable security environment.
We are exploring five principal goals: permanent security consultations, reliable crisis communications, greater military transparency, reciprocal measures to reduce escalation risks, and an enduring framework for long-term European security and stability.
Any arrangements must fully respect the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independent decision-making of every nation. Each country will retain authority over its own security and alliances, and no country would have a veto over another’s sovereign choices. NATO will remain central to European collective defense, and this initiative would build upon existing institutions and commitments.
We will continue consultations through the Shell Bay format with Ukraine, NATO, the EU, and our European partners, expanding engagement to ensure that all relevant perspectives and ideas are considered. We will also engage Russia as part of the peace negotiations.
Next week in Abu Dhabi, the United States will convene the first trilateral peace discussions with Ukraine and Russia since February. All parties remain intensely engaged in preparing for substantive and productive negotiations. We will consult closely with our European partners on the sidelines and, if progress is made, aim to move toward a broader multilateral format with their direct participation.
These ideas continue to evolve, and we welcome thoughtful input. Creating the right structure will be critical to ending this war and transitioning from conflict toward conditions that make possible a durable peace.
This is difficult, detailed work. There are no easy solutions. But the opportunity to help end this devastating war and build a foundation for a more peaceful, secure, and prosperous Europe for generations to come makes it a challenge well worth undertaking.
We will see how these discussions develop and continue working intensively with all parties toward President Trump’s objective of a comprehensive and lasting peace.
Maciej Stadejek retweeted
The tragic loss of life in the shooting in Kraków is a tragedy that will be felt far beyond Poland.
I have conveyed my heartfelt condolences to @sikorskiradek. My thoughts are with the victims and their families and the first responders.
Poland’s strength lies in the resilience of its people. In this moment of grief, Poland does not stand alone.
Maciej Stadejek retweeted
Russia has achieved a significant political success. The Russian demand—made in the context of resolving the conflict with Ukraine—to address the European security architecture (effectively seeking its revision) and to provide security guarantees to Russia has been taken up by American negotiators and the President.
Of the five areas of discussion, all but one—crisis communications (i.e., permanent security consultations, greater military transparency, reciprocal measures to reduce escalation risk, and enduring framework for security and stability)—contain potential pitfalls and risks.
The list of topics was clearly inspired by Russian demands, which had already been articulated in the ultimatum Russia issued to the U.S. and NATO in December 2021, prior to the start of its aggression against Ukraine. We discussed this in a piece for @OSW_eng
osw.waw.pl/en/publikacje/ana…
The core of this proposal was the creation of a de facto buffer zone—a partially demilitarized area along NATO’s eastern flank—and the reversal of most of the military consequences resulting from NATO’s enlargement in 1999 and 2004. Moscow is now likely to push for similar concessions, including:
1. Guarantees that post-Soviet states will not be admitted to NATO, and an end to military cooperation with them. 2. A ban on the deployment in Europe of weapons systems (particularly missiles) capable of striking targets deep within Russian territory. 3. The withdrawal of Allied forces from NATO’s eastern flank states. ...
4. A prohibition on the deployment of nuclear weapons outside the territories of the states that possess them (the U.S., the United Kingdom, and France). 5. Refraining from military activities (exercises, patrols, etc.) in the vicinity of Russia’s land and maritime borders, as well as its airspace (within zones to be defined by Russia itself).
Clearly, given the existing strategic imbalance in Russia’s favor—with its deployment of nuclear weapons and intermediate-range missiles in the immediate vicinity of NATO, and its capacity for the rapid redeployment of forces from its Asian territory—any notion of symmetrical restrictions would be purely illusory.
Russia is well aware that its demands are unacceptable to European nations, particularly those on NATO’s northeastern flank. It is banking on an increase in internal tensions within the Alliance, a halt to the redeployment of U.S. forces to the eastern flank, and the shifting of blame onto the Europeans for the lack of progress in the peace process.
President Trump today advanced an important discussion with several European leaders about the need for a broader European security architecture that can help establish the conditions for lasting peace.
Building on his leadership and the substantive work undertaken this week in Brussels with Ukraine, NATO, and our European partners, @SEPeaceMissions and I wanted to share some of the objectives guiding our ongoing discussions.
For more than 30 years, Europe and Russia have struggled to establish a sustainable security framework. Decades of mistrust, competing security concerns, and the devastating consequences of this war make this an extraordinarily difficult challenge, but one that is essential to lasting peace.
Our objective is to develop practical arrangements that address the security concerns of all sides, reduce the risk of future conflict, and create a more stable and predictable security environment.
We are exploring five principal goals: permanent security consultations, reliable crisis communications, greater military transparency, reciprocal measures to reduce escalation risks, and an enduring framework for long-term European security and stability.
Any arrangements must fully respect the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independent decision-making of every nation. Each country will retain authority over its own security and alliances, and no country would have a veto over another’s sovereign choices. NATO will remain central to European collective defense, and this initiative would build upon existing institutions and commitments.
We will continue consultations through the Shell Bay format with Ukraine, NATO, the EU, and our European partners, expanding engagement to ensure that all relevant perspectives and ideas are considered. We will also engage Russia as part of the peace negotiations.
Next week in Abu Dhabi, the United States will convene the first trilateral peace discussions with Ukraine and Russia since February. All parties remain intensely engaged in preparing for substantive and productive negotiations. We will consult closely with our European partners on the sidelines and, if progress is made, aim to move toward a broader multilateral format with their direct participation.
These ideas continue to evolve, and we welcome thoughtful input. Creating the right structure will be critical to ending this war and transitioning from conflict toward conditions that make possible a durable peace.
This is difficult, detailed work. There are no easy solutions. But the opportunity to help end this devastating war and build a foundation for a more peaceful, secure, and prosperous Europe for generations to come makes it a challenge well worth undertaking.
We will see how these discussions develop and continue working intensively with all parties toward President Trump’s objective of a comprehensive and lasting peace.
Maciej Stadejek retweeted
HR/VP @kajakallas participated in the @CBSSsecretariat Ministerial Meeting in Warsaw, Poland. The meeting aims to strengthen regional security cooperation, sustain support for Ukraine and coordinate responses to Russia's hybrid threats, while contributing to efforts towards a lasting peace in Ukraine.
HR/VP delivered joint press remarks alongside the Polish Minister of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Prime Minister, @sikorskiradek and Ukrainian Foreign Minister, @andrii_sybiha.
Read the full press remarks here: link.europa.eu/XdghHR
Maciej Stadejek retweeted
Putin does not have a veto over European security.
Any agreement to end the war must prevent Russia from re-arming and re-attacking.
This is why earlier this year, I put forward a paper with core demands towards Moscow, which was discussed by EU Foreign Ministers. This should be the basis for any negotiations.
Concessions should be on the aggressor, not on the victim.
My press remarks in Warsaw alongside @sikorskiradek and @andrii_sybiha ↓
Maciej Stadejek retweeted
The Kremlin claims Russia only began striking Ukrainian civilian infrastructure in response to Kyiv’s actions.
But Russian attacks on Ukraine’s power grid began years before Ukraine developed the long-range strike capabilities Moscow now cites as justification.
Russia’s attacks are not a new response. They’re a longstanding campaign.
It was a pleasure to participate in the handover of military equipment for Kenya Defense Forces under the European Peace Facility. EUR 20 M worth equipment will make KDF better prepared to stabilise its region. 🇪🇺 is a reliable actor offering concrete support to our partners 💪
Handed over! @EUAmbKenya, EU Managing Director and Commander of the Kenya Navy marked the first deliveries of new equipment, part of Ksh 3 billion in EU support to the @kdfinfo to strengthen maritime security. Thank you to all EU Member States who made this possible. #TeamEurope
Maciej Stadejek retweeted
Kenya and the European Union (EU) continue to strengthen their longstanding partnership in promoting regional peace, security and stability through enhanced defence cooperation, capacity building and support for maritime security operations.See more: tinyurl.com/mt6xu945
Maciej Stadejek retweeted
Today, Europe and Kenya take our partnership to the sea 🇪🇺🇰🇪 For the first time, Kenya receives #EuropeanPeaceFacility support: Ksh 3 billion for the Kenyan Defence Forces @kdfinfo, financed by EU Member States, with the Kenya Navy among main beneficiaries. #TeamEurope #EUKenya50
Maciej Stadejek retweeted
At the 5th EU-Kenya Security and Defence Dialogue we are exchanging views on regional security and transnational threats.
🇪🇺 and 🇰🇪 share a commitment to peace and a rules-based international order.
Honored to have PS @ray_omollo and @MStadejek co-chair this meeting!
@eu_eeas
Maciej Stadejek retweeted
The UK is a vital partner for European security.
With Defence Secretary @wesstreeting, we held our Foreign and Security Policy Dialogue in Brussels.
Our Security and Defence Partnership is delivering. We are working together to counter hybrid threats and foreign information manipulation, and our close cooperation on sanctions continues.
At the EU-UK Summit in two weeks, we will take next steps.
Maciej Stadejek retweeted
The #RoadToSchuman event organised by @EUinKenya focused on EU and Kenya’s shared interests and respective efforts to regional stability, notably on maritime security in the Western Indian Ocean and counter-terrorism in East Africa.
Maciej Stadejek retweeted
The Nairobi Road to Schuman engagement this morning brought together Kenya, the European Union and other international partners to discuss shared security and defence priorities. The engagement provided an important platform to strengthen partnerships, deepen cooperation and reaffirm our shared commitment to promoting regional and international peace and stability.
Kenya values its longstanding partnership with the European Union and remains committed to working with international and regional partners in addressing emerging security challenges. Through sustained collaboration, we continue to strengthen our collective capacity to promote peace, security and stability in East Africa and the Western Indian Ocean.
As we look forward to the forthcoming Fifth Kenya-EU Security and Defence Dialogue, we remain committed to translating our shared priorities into practical cooperation and meaningful outcomes. Kenya will continue to work closely with the European Union and regional partners towards a safer, more stable and resilient East Africa and Western Indian Ocean.
I was joined by the European Union Ambassador to Kenya H.E. Andreas Peschke @AmbPeschke, Amb. Josphat Maikara representing the Principal Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Ambassadors and High Commissioners, Maciej Stadejek Director for Security and Defence Policy for EU @MStadejek, Commander Kenya Navy Maj Gen Paul Otieno among other senior KDF officers and Government officials.
Maciej Stadejek retweeted
We call on all States to protect journalists and ensure accountability. Our EU Delegations all over the globe will keep standing by them and pressing for justice when they are attacked.
@EUOSCE @EUatCoE @EU_UNGeneva @EUatUN @IFJGlobal
Not one more.
Journalists must be able to report freely and safely. When they are attacked or killed, those responsible must be brought to justice.
Since 2015, the EU has supported nearly 13,000 journalists at risk worldwide through ProtectDefenders.EU.
On the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, we call on all States to protect journalists and ensure accountability.
Read the joint statement by HR/VP @kajakallas, Executive VP @HennaVirkkunen and Commissioner @EUCssrMcGrath: link.europa.eu/FYTC3m
Maciej Stadejek retweeted
Since 2014, Russia's war against Ukraine has escalated step by step. EU sanctions have kept pace at every stage.
When Russia looks for ways around sanctions, the EU works to close the gaps.
On 12 October, the EU adopted its largest set of listings to date: 826 companies at the core of Russia's military industry and 743 of their CEOs.
Read more: link.europa.eu/kjcdvyct
Maciej Stadejek retweeted
At the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Atlanta, HR/VP @kajakallas reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to freedom of navigation, energy security and resilient supply chains.
Read her plenary remarks: link.europa.eu/RhjRrK
Russia’s war in Ukraine and the crisis in the Middle East pose major threats to energy and food supplies, trade and freedom of navigation.
Maritime routes are global lifelines.
At the G20 Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Atlanta, I called for a Black Sea freedom of navigation arrangement and reaffirmed the EU’s opposition to tolls and fees on international shipping routes.
Energy security and supply chain resilience are vital for global economic stability.
Maciej Stadejek retweeted
Stanisław Żukowski - Chłodny jesienny poranek (olej na płótnie, 55 x 74,5 cm), 1920, Muzeum Narodowe we Wrocławiu. #PolishMastersofArt
