On 12 March, US President Joe Biden is set to host Poland’s President Andrzej Duda and Prime Minister Donald Tusk in Washington, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of Poland’s NATO membership. 

According to a statement by Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, the leaders will reiterate their firm support for Ukraine’s defence against Russia’s aggressive actions, particularly crucial amidst political discord in the US Congress delaying the approval of a $60 billion aid package for Kyiv.

The meeting aims to emphasise the commitment of both Washington and Warsaw to the NATO Alliance, with coordination planned ahead of the NATO Summit in July. White House national security spokesman John Kirby described the meeting as an opportunity to express gratitude for Poland’s contributions, both as a NATO ally and in assisting Ukraine. 

https://twitter.com/Marekwalkuski/status/1758163240373072074

In Poland, the joint visit holds additional significance due to the political differences between Tusk and Duda. Tusk’s liberal Cabinet, which took office in December, has been reversing policies of their right-wing predecessors, accused of violating the rule of law and democratic principles. Duda, from the recently ousted right-wing party, has criticized Tusk’s government for alleged constitutional violations and authoritarian methods. 

https://twitter.com/AndrzejDuda/status/1758172725011452341

Image: X (@rzeczpospolita)

Author: Sébastien Meuwissen