Poland’s President Karol Nawrocki has asserted that U.S. President Donald Trump is the only world leader capable of stopping Russian President Vladimir Putin from threatening Europe. Speaking in an interview with BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Nawrocki emphasized the importance of supporting Trump’s efforts to end the war in Ukraine and address security challenges facing Central and Eastern Europe.
Poland Faces Growing Security Threats
President Nawrocki, who has long been a supporter of Donald Trump, stressed that Europe faces significant danger from Russia. He pointed to last September’s large-scale drone incursion, when more than 20 uncrewed Russian aircraft crossed into Poland from Belarus and Ukraine. Nawrocki described the incident as “an extraordinary situation,” noting that no NATO member state had previously experienced a drone attack of that magnitude.
“Russia was testing Poland’s defences and testing NATO’s solidarity,” he said, underlining the persistent threat his country faces. He added that Poland has been in a state of “hybrid war” with Russia since 2021, contending with drone attacks and disinformation campaigns.
In response to these incursions, the United Kingdom deployed Royal Air Force (RAF) Typhoon jets to support Poland’s air defence. Nawrocki expressed gratitude to Britain, calling the assistance vital for protecting Polish borders.
NATO and the Role of the United States
Despite tensions over certain U.S. policy statements—such as Trump’s threat to acquire Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory—President Nawrocki affirmed that the United States remains Europe’s key security guarantor. He praised Trump’s efforts, stating that they “deserved support and great respect,” and warned that Europe risks weakening its military and economic security if it distances itself from Washington.
Regarding Greenland, Nawrocki said the issue should be resolved through dialogue between Denmark and the United States and within the framework of NATO.
Critique of European Priorities
The Polish president did not shy away from criticizing European leaders for focusing on what he described as “not so important things, in ideological issues such as the green deal, climate policy, migration issues.” He contrasted this with Poland’s increased defense spending, which now amounts to nearly 5% of its GDP, reflecting Warsaw’s emphasis on military preparedness in a volatile region.
President Nawrocki highlighted the significance of Poland’s relationship with the United Kingdom, noting that around one million Poles currently live in the UK. He expressed “deep appreciation” for British troops stationed in Poland, describing their presence as crucial for NATO’s eastern flank. Looking ahead, Nawrocki suggested that Poland could participate in international events such as the next G20 summit hosted by the UK, citing his country’s rapidly growing economy.
