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Poles stand alone in EU in supporting U.S. military bases on home soil, poll shows

15.05.2026 09:00
Poland is the only European Union country where a clear majority of respondents back hosting a U.S. military base, a survey for the annual Democracy Perception Index has found.
FILE PHOTO: Motorpool at the base in Powidz.
FILE PHOTO: Motorpool at the base in Powidz.PAP/Paweł Jaskółka

Nearly 51% of Polish respondents supported a U.S. base on Polish territory, against just 23% opposed, according to the survey conducted in March and April across 98 countries, including 17 EU member states, and reported by Politico Europe.

The result sets Poland sharply apart from most of Europe, where majorities in the countries surveyed opposed U.S. military bases. Globally, only Israel (48.9% in favor, 27.7% opposed) and South Korea (41% vs. 26.6%) showed majority support, along with Romania, where backing was narrower and opinion more divided (39.8% vs. 37.3%).

The strongest opposition within the EU came from Sweden (70.1% against), Austria (68.8%) and Hungary (68.5%). Latvia and Estonia were not included in the survey.

The poll underscores Poland's standing as one of Europe's most pro-American societies. A separate Politico survey in March found most Poles describing the United States as a close ally or partner, while majorities in France, Germany, Spain and Italy viewed Washington as a competitor or threat. Opposition in Germany and the United Kingdom — both hosting large U.S. troop contingents — was lower than in many other European nations surveyed.

The findings come as the U.S. has announced the withdrawal of 5,000 of its 36,000 troops from Germany. Several NATO eastern flank countries, including Poland, Romania and Lithuania, are seeking to host those forces. President Donald Trump has not ruled out a redeployment to Poland.

(jh)

Source: PAP