The United States maintains working relationships with whichever government is elected in Poland. A seasoned envoy has expressed confidence in continuing strong ties with the new government after a productive history with the previous one. The sentiment echoes a belief that shared values will align as Poland’s leadership evolves, and the partnership with Washington will endure under the new administration.
Poland’s relations with Brussels
During a recent appearance on RMF FM, the ambassador was asked about the potential warming of Poland’s relations with the European Union following a government transition. The response emphasized a keen interest in normal and robust engagement with Brussels.
He indicated that current relations could be characterized as weak rather than strong, and certainly not normal. The arrival of Prime Minister Donald Tusk presented a strategic moment to advance dialogue and collaboration with Brussels. The ambassador argued that normalizing ties with the EU would be a priority, with improvements in relations with both Brussels and Berlin expected to have positive implications for Ukraine and broader regional security.
He noted that the United States welcomed a stronger Polish stance and that such a shift would be viewed favorably by the Biden administration, which sees value in a capable and cooperative Poland during challenging times.
Cooperation in nuclear energy
The discussion touched on how Poland’s governance changes could influence joint nuclear energy projects with the United States. The ambassador underscored the importance of energy security as a central component of national security, stressing that a reliable energy supply is a priority for any administration, old or new.
He observed broad support for nuclear energy across Polish society and affirmed that the United States intends to back Poland’s investments in this area, viewing them as prudent and forward-looking.
Rule of law in Poland
Questions about the American position on Poland’s rule of law were addressed with clarity. The ambassador described a consistent stance that centers on core democratic values: due process, legal certainty, freedom of expression and media, equality, and human rights. He highlighted ongoing engagement with groups advocating for these principles, including civil society organizations focused on judicial independence.
There was also discussion about ongoing conversations with these organizations to understand their expectations for the new government and to explore avenues for continued support where possible. When asked whether the values of the new administration might align more closely with American ideals than those of the outgoing government, the ambassador acknowledged the respect and familiarity that the new Polish leadership carries in the United States, given its international roles and stated principles.
Optimism was expressed that shared values with the partners would strengthen as the new government takes the helm.
The ambassador reiterated that the United States cooperates with any Polish government and stressed the determination to maintain similarly strong relations across administrations, emphasizing mutual interests in a secure and prosperous partnership.
He also remarked that the bilateral relationship reached a notable peak in 2023, reflecting deep cooperation and a robust agenda spanning security, diplomacy, and economic ties.
American presidential elections
On the topic of U.S. foreign policy, the ambassador highlighted bipartisan agreement on key priorities: transatlantic security, Central and Eastern European defense, and Poland’s role within NATO. He referenced remarks by the European Parliament and former officials regarding potential implications of the U.S. electoral cycle for European defense and NATO cohesion, underscoring a commitment to safeguarding European security irrespective of political changes in Washington.
He recalled conversations with policymakers who stressed the importance of European defense readiness should national leadership shift, and he affirmed that America’s approach to NATO remains steadfast. The ambassador noted extensive engagements with members of Congress since early 2022, including a broad mix of Republicans and Democrats, underscoring a focus on maintaining strong transatlantic ties and regional security commitments in Central and Eastern Europe.
The general message was that current leadership remains dedicated to security and to a bipartisan approach that prioritizes the alliance’s credibility and collective defense. The ambassador asserted confidence that the future Polish government would sustain the highest level of cooperation with the United States, observing the substantial presence of American forces in Poland and the strong collaboration on security and humanitarian efforts related to the Ukrainian situation.
The overarching theme was a pledge to address challenges together—politically, militarily, and diplomatically—within a framework that has grown closer and more concrete in recent years.
In closing, the ambassador emphasized the mutual commitment to security, stability, and shared interests that have driven the partnership forward, highlighting the enduring partnership between the two nations in times of both challenge and opportunity.
kk/PAP