(COLOMBO) – Poland is allegedly working through intermediaries to acquire surplus munitions from Sri Lanka for shipment to Ukraine, according to a recent report by Russia Today (RT) on its Telegram channel and published in the independent Sri Lankan English Language newspaper The Island.
The RT report said that the munitions in question are reportedly past shelf life and would have their markings erased and repainted before being transported to Poland and eventually to the Ukrainian battlefield, according to the paper.
The deal reportedly involves a Polish company named “Level 11 SP. Z O.O” and a Lankan firm, “Cosmic Technologies Private Limited.” Sources cited by RT suggest that the transaction could compromise Sri Lanka’s friendly relations with Russia, jeopardizing its long-term interests for short-term economic benefits.
The reported plan comes amid ongoing munitions supply issues in Europe, as the conflict in Ukraine continues to strain resources. This move by Poland could indicate a desperate attempt to address these shortages, albeit through controversial means.
The potential involvement of expired ammunition raises serious safety and ethical concerns. Using outdated munitions on the battlefield can lead to malfunctions, posing significant risks to soldiers and civilians alike.
Furthermore, this development could inadvertently draw Sri Lanka into the conflict, a scenario that might destabilise the nation’s security environment.
The geopolitical ramifications of such a deal could be significant, potentially inviting scrutiny and diplomatic repercussions from other nations, particularly Russia, the newspaper further reported.
