**Polish Defense Minister Calls for Greater NATO Involvement in Ukraine**
Poland‘s defense minister, Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz, has announced that Poland will participate in the upcoming meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) on January 9. This meeting might be the last one in its current format, as President-elect Donald Trump is expected to change US strategy regarding Ukraine.
**Trump’s Plans Unclear**
Kosiniak-Kamysz said that NATO should take a greater burden in supporting Ukraine. He praised US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin for his support of Poland and aid to Ukraine. However, the plans of the incoming Trump administration remain unclear, sparking debate over US policy shifts.
**Ukraine’s Defense Needs**
The January 9 meeting will focus on strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities through 2027, including air force, armor, artillery, drone, de-mining, missile defense, and maritime security needs. NATO has already begun transitioning to greater involvement, with member states agreeing to pass partial control of weapons supply coordination to Kyiv.
**Russian Attacks Continue**
Meanwhile, Russia continues to launch attacks on Ukraine. The military reported that at least two civilians were killed and 13 injured nationwide over the past day. The Ukrainian army also reported significant casualties among Russian forces, including 1,660 troops just over the past day.
**Other Developments**
* Poland closed its consulate building in St. Petersburg after 53 years.
* Ukraine’s Ground Forces chief reported to President Volodymyr Zelensky on the causes of problems facing the French-trained 155th “Anne of Kyiv” Brigade and presented solutions.
* A fleet of up to 10 NATO vessels will guard infrastructure under the Baltic Sea until April.
* US President-elect Donald Trump said that NATO should raise its defense spending benchmark from 2% of GDP to 5%.
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