President Duda criticizes Defense Minister for downplaying the importance of US cooperation in Poland’s military modernization.
President Andrzej Duda expressed concern over Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz’s recent parliamentary speech. Duda felt the minister inadequately emphasized the critical role of the United States in NATO and Poland’s military modernization. “The presence of the US is the largest NATO presence in Poland,” Duda stated.
Significance of US Presence
Duda highlighted that NATO’s presence in Poland, especially US forces, is crucial. He reminded the Sejm of his long-standing advocacy for NATO bases in Poland, a goal that faced initial skepticism but was eventually realized. Duda emphasized the importance of ongoing and future US-Polish defense contracts, including the Patriot missile system.
US-Polish Military Relations
Duda underscored that the strongest security guarantee for Poland is its deepening cooperation with the US. He noted that recent visits by Polish leaders to the US should also acknowledge his previous visits, where he engaged with the US Congress and Senate.
Continuing Defense Contracts
The president appreciated Kosiniak-Kamysz’s mention of ongoing and new US-Polish defense contracts, calling it vital for Poland’s defense infrastructure. “Since 2015, we have signed numerous contracts with American firms,” Duda added.