Poland’s ambition to become America’s primary partner in Europe got a boost

The UK was always proud of its pole position, no matter who sat in the Oval Office and resided at Downing Street. Germany is skulking not far behind, with its remarkable economic strength, strategic location, and massive presence of U.S. troops. France, a nuclear power, incessantly ambivalent, jangling the nerves of American elites from time to time, however highly respected in Washington. Let’s add another, unexpected actor to this picture: just recently Finland has made impressive strides in this contest, mostly thanks to President Stubb’s masterly rhetoric and… golfing skills.

Poland has also had its own ambitions in this respect. Since 1989, when we shed the yoke of communism, and especially after joining NATO ten years later, Polish politicians across the ideological spectrum have been tirelessly underscoring the country’s role as one of the indispensable pillars of the transatlantic constellation. Highlighting the historical ties between both nations, enumerating common priorities in countering Russia’s growing aggressiveness, and stressing the exceptional affection of the Polish society towards America and Americans.

To a certain extent, these efforts have yielded fruit, although consequences were sometimes poignantly bitter. In the eyes of many German, and French policymakers Poland became „America’s Trojan horse”. An unfair designation, albeit perfectly illustrating transatlantic frictions.

Fast forward to September 2025 and the visit of the newly elected President Karol Nawrocki to the White House. The Polish leader met with President Trump, was graced with compliments, and responded accordingly, emphasising the geopolitical weight of the U.S.-Polish bond. Additionally, Trump pledged not to reduce the American military footprint in Poland (he even hinted at increasing it), and extended an invitation for Nawrocki to attend the G20 summit in Florida next year.

Given the usually tense nature of Mr. Trump’s bilateral meetings with world leaders (the infamous shouting match between him and Volodimir Zelensky being just one example), Nawrocki was treated almost regally. This bodes well for their future personal relationship, which will be pivotal in Poland’s endeavour to get further elevated on the global stage.

Nevertheless, it will be a challenge for the Polish leadership to strike the right balance between our rock-solid alliance with the U.S. and the complex relations with major European capitals. The „Trojan horse” label has never been removed. Still, it all comes down to political calculus. Quite obviously, the America’s-Most-Valuable-Ally Award has a price tag.

Author: Marek Magierowski