The troop rotation pause has opened fresh debate over a long-term US presence
WARSAW – Uncertainty over the future of US troops in Poland has strengthened Warsaw’s case for a permanent American military base, Joanna Kluzik-Rostkowska, chair of the Polish delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, told Euractiv.
Warsaw is trying, at least publicly, to stay composed as Donald Trump steps up efforts to scale back the US military presence in Europe.
Poland has been affected, despite long being regarded as one of Washington’s most reliable allies. In mid-May, Polish officials were informed that the rotation of around 4,000 troops from the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team of the 1st Cavalry Division, based at Fort Hood in Texas, was being suspended.
The decision sparked concern in Poland, prompting Trump to quickly shift his position. “Based on the successful Election of the now President of Poland, Karol Nawrocki, who I was proud to Endorse, and our relationship with him, I am pleased to announce that the United States will be sending an additional 5,000 Troops to Poland,” he wrote on 21 May on Truth Social.
