Poland to join military operation against migrant smugglers?
PR dla Zagranicy
Nick Hodge
13.05.2015 08:45
Poland is one of ten EU countries to have declared an interest in taking part in military operations against migrant smugglers based in Libya, which could see a Polish warship deployed in the region.
An Oliver Hazard Perry class frigate, as used by the Polish Navy. Photo: wikimedia commons.
The proposals to destroy Libyan smugglers’ ships came after over a thousand migrants died in late April while trying to reach the EU, and have the aim of reducing the number of migrants who make the journey and thus also reduce the number who drown while crossing.
Poland is expected to contribute a reconnaissance plane, though there are ongoing talks for a Polish naval ship to also take part in the mission. The main contributors are expected to be Italy, France and the UK.
The proposals for military intervention may be given the green light by the EU next week.
However, any use of force against Libyan smugglers requires approval from the UN Security Council, which may not be forthcoming due to Russian opposition.
Russia’s ambassador to the EU, Vladimir Chizhov, stated that “stopping smugglers and taking over their ships is one thing but destroying them is going too far,” claiming that such action would be illegal under international law.
If approval from the Security Council is not gained then it is understood the EU would consider a more moderate version of the plan, operating only in international waters and avoiding Libyan territorial waters. (sl/nh)
Source: IAR