Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz met with U.S. officials on May 20 to address ongoing military cooperation, dismissing reports of troop reductions and emphasizing Poland’s status as a key NATO partner.
Strengthening the Polish-American Partnership
Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz met with Christopher J. Mahoney, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in Warsaw on May 20 to discuss bilateral military cooperation. Kosiniak-Kamysz described the current climate as a “Polish offensive” aimed at bolstering ties between the two nations.
The minister relayed that he was assured Poland remains a model ally and an essential partner for the U.S. in Europe. He highlighted Poland’s commitment to defense, noting the nation’s 5 percent GDP investment in military spending and its role in funding the stationing of American soldiers, costing approximately 15,000 dollars per soldier annually.
Clarifying the U.S. Military Presence
Addressing reports of potential troop decreases, Kosiniak-Kamysz clarified that no such decision has been made. He explained that recent shifts are part of a broader “model change” for U.S. forces in Europe, involving a temporary pause in deployment rather than a permanent withdrawal.
The Pentagon is currently drafting a new deployment plan for the entire continent. The minister confirmed that Poland is being kept fully informed and will participate in the planning process, which is being led by General Grynkiewicz.
Pentagon Confirmation of Force Adjustments
Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell announced that the Department of Defense has reduced the total number of Brigade Combat Teams (BCT) assigned to Europe from four to three, returning to 2021 levels. This adjustment has resulted in a temporary delay in the deployment of forces to Poland.
Parnell stated that the final disposition of these forces will be determined based on further analysis of U.S. strategic needs and the ability of allies to contribute to the defense of Europe. He reiterated that Poland remains a model ally in these ongoing assessments.