Polish President Andrzej Duda embarked on an official visit to the US next week, with plans to meet President Joe Biden at the White House on Tuesday, accompanied by PM Donald Tusk. 

The meeting, scheduled on the 25th anniversary of Poland’s NATO accession, will involve discussions on topics such as NATO’s current situation, potential enlargement, support for Ukraine, as well as bilateral cooperation and arms deals between Poland and the US. 

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During the meeting, the leaders are expected to reaffirm their strong support for Ukraine against Russian aggression. The meeting will start at 3:30 PM local time at the White House, followed by President Duda addressing the press at 4:35 PM. 

The meeting is intended to underscore the dedication of both Washington and Warsaw to the NATO Alliance, with coordination planned in preparation for the NATO Summit in July. White House national security spokesman John Kirby referred to the meeting as an opportunity to express appreciation for Poland’s contributions, both as a NATO ally and in supporting Ukraine.

In Poland, the joint visit carries added significance due to the political contrasts between Tusk and Duda. Tusk’s liberal administration, inaugurated in December, has been undoing policies implemented by their right-wing predecessors, which were criticised for allegedly disregarding the rule of law and democratic principles. Duda, representing the recently removed right-wing party, has voiced opposition to Tusk’s government, alleging constitutional violations and authoritarian practices.

Image: X (@rzeczpospolita)

Author: Sébastien Meuwissen