Poland Likely Last for US Troop Cuts in Europe

Zalewski said talks with American officials indicate there is a powerful strategic partnership, cementing Poland as one of the most important places for U.S. forces located on NATO's eastern flank.

The strategic significance of Poland as a result has increased markedly since Russia's full-bore invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022.

"There is also a clear strategic rationale for U.S. troops to be in Poland," Zalewski said, noting that their presence serves as an important deterrent against additional Russian aggression.

Poland Grows Its Role in US and NATO Operations
Poland is a fast-moving train trying to become the central station for re-supply, logistical support, and potentially manufacturing of defense equipment in Europe.

This has also entailed conversations about servicing F-16 fighter jets and support for an array of American combat vehicles, such as Abrams tanks, Zalewski said.

Germany played such a role during the Cold War, Zalewski added, but today's security challenges warrant moving that attention closer to where front-line countries are marked. Given that it shares borders with Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus, Poland is a natural location for basing key operations of NATO or the United States.

Top NATO Spender and Biggest Buyer of U.S. Arms in Europe
Poland is the largest NATO country based on defence expenditures as a share of national wealth (4.7% in 2025 and increased to 5,0% for years starting from and ending beyond the year-end boundary of 2026).

The state has also invested heavily in modernizing the armed forces.

Poland is the biggest European purchaser of U.S. weapons and has an increasing arsenal that includes Abrams tanks, HIMARS rocket systems, Patriot air defense units, as well as F-16 and F-35 fighter jets, Apache helicopters, among others.

This emphasis on defense has made Poland one of NATO's strongest proponents for enhancing its readiness and military spending, particularly as Russia has pursued ongoing fighting in Ukraine to increase the reach of its armed forces.

In aligning its strategic priorities so closely with U.S. and NATO goals, Poland is ensuring that it will remain a frontline defense partner and long-term host for American forces in Europe.