After Tuesday’s conversation, Minister of National Defence Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz assured that the United States’ commitment to Poland’s security remains unchanged, and that our country is viewed in Washington as one of NATO’s most reliable and active allies.
Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz reassures the public
The minister stressed that Poland can still count on US support both politically and militarily. However, these statements were general declarations and did not contain specific information, such as the future number of American soldiers stationed in Poland or the scale of the planned organisational changes.
Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz on social media:
I have concluded a conversation with @PeteHegseth. The US Secretary of War confirmed that the United States’ commitment to Poland’s defence and security remains unchanged. Our military relations are strong and were unequivocally confirmed today. Several times during the conversation, I heard that Poland is a model ally and can fully count on the United States.
The process of regrouping US Army forces and resources in Europe is under way, but no decision to reduce the capabilities of American troops in Poland has been made. The decisions being taken are in no way directed against our strategic partnership. The Pentagon is currently preparing a new plan for deploying its forces throughout Europe. We agreed to continue working together to strengthen Poland’s security and to establish the target model for the presence of American troops in Poland
According to the head of the Ministry of National Defence, the American administration is currently reviewing and implementing a new model for deploying US forces in Europe.
Why is the US reducing its presence in Europe?
This is due, among other things, to US President Donald Trump’s disappointment with the stance of European countries, NATO members, towards the US war with Iran, as well as the adaptation of US strategy to new priorities—above all, a greater focus on competition in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly China, while expecting Europe to take greater responsibility for its own security.
Soldiers and equipment from American bases in Germany could be sent to Poland, where the number of US Army soldiers may be reduced by as many as approximately 5,000.
Such a scenario would allow the US to reduce logistical costs and shorten response times while maintaining a military presence on NATO’s eastern flank. Poland is to hold talks on this matter.
Vice President J.D. Vance and the Pentagon: “a temporary delay in the rotation to Poland”
US Vice President J. D. Vance provided somewhat more information about the suspension of the rotation of US soldiers. The question of American troops in Europe was raised during a press briefing at the White House. Quoted by the Onet.pl service, Vance stated:
We have not reduced the number of troops in Poland by 4,000 soldiers. We delayed the deployment of troops that were to go to Poland. This is not a reduction. It is a standard delay in the rotation, which sometimes occurs in such situations.
The Pentegon issued a similar statement:
The Ministry of War reduced the number of Brigade Combat Teams (BCTs) stationed in Europe from four to three, thereby restoring the level of military presence to that of 2021.
– Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said in a statement published on the X platform, adding:
The decision was made after a comprehensive, multistage analysis of the presence of US armed forces in Europe. In practice, this means a temporary delay in the deployment of American troops to Poland, which remains an exemplary ally of the United States.
The importance of the US military presence in Bolesławiec and Bolesławiec County
For regions connected with the presence of American troops, including Bolesławiec and Bolesławiec County, any potential changes are significant. Since 2017, the region has benefited from the presence of US Army soldiers and has developed both economically and infrastructurally.
The presence of American troops primarily increases the region’s military importance. Bolesławiec County is an important location used during NATO exercises. This is confirmed by the training grounds and the expansion of road, rail and warehouse infrastructure carried out in recent years.
The benefits are also visible in the local economy. American soldiers and the businesses cooperating with them use hotels, restaurants, shops, transport companies and the residential rental market. For many local companies, the presence of the US Army means additional income and greater business stability. Local authorities also point out that increased military activity attracts investment and improves the region’s visibility.
The social and security aspect is also significant. For many residents, the presence of US troops is a symbol of Poland’s lasting ties with NATO structures and a real element of deterrence against potential threats from Russia. Therefore, all information about a possible reduction in rotations or changes in the American military presence is being closely watched in the region. For now, US Army soldiers continue to be stationed in the city of ceramics.
In a poll conducted by the Istotne.pl portal, a majority of voters—nearly 64%—support the stationing of American troops in our region: