U.S. president Donald Trump has announced that the United States will send 5,000 troops to Poland, reversing uncertainty over an earlier deployment that had appeared to be scrapped amid growing pressure on European allies to take more responsibility for their own defence.
Trump said the decision was linked to his relationship with Polish President Karol Nawrocki, whom he described as a nationalist ally he was “proud to endorse” during last year’s election campaign.
“I am pleased to announce that the United States will be sending an additional 5,000 Troops to Poland,” Trump wrote on social media.
The announcement follows several days of mixed signals from Washington. Last week, U.S. officials said a planned deployment of 4,000 troops to Poland had been cancelled, prompting concerns in Europe about America’s long-term military commitment to the continent.
Vice President JD Vance later said the deployment had only been delayed, while also warning that Europe needed to stand on its “own two feet” on defence.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte welcomed Trump’s decision, saying alliance commanders were now working through the details.
Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski thanked Trump and said the American military presence in Poland would remain “more or less at previous levels.”
European officials meanwhile acknowledged confusion over Washington’s messaging, while stressing the need for Europe to increase defence spending and military capabilities.
