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Poland downplays US-NATO tensions after Trump remarks

19.03.2026 18:30
Polish officials have sought to ease concerns about the stability of NATO, stressing the central role of the United States and urging restraint in response to recent statements by President Donald Trump.
Audio
Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.
Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.Photo: PAP/Marcin Obara

Earlier this week, Trump warned that NATO could face a "very bad future" if allies do not respond to his call to help secure the Strait of Hormuz.

Asked whether he was rethinking America’s relationship with the military alliance or considering leaving it, Trump said it was something he should think about.

Poland’s Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz played down the remarks on Wednesday, saying NATO’s relationship with the United States rests on solid foundations.

"There is no NATO without the United States, but there is also no global power status for the United States without its role in NATO" he said.

"I wouldn’t give in to one-day emotions," he added. "A few months ago, we saw enormous tensions over Greenland; now we’re seeing very positive signals that everything between the United States and Denmark has been settled, and there is no longer any dispute."

He called for “lowering the temperature a bit and calming heated minds.”

Michał Owczarek has the story.

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