A new poll raises questions about Polish faith in NATO’s promise of assistance should the country face a potential attack.
Conducted by the Pollster Research Institute for the Super Express tabloid, the survey reveals a nation divided in its confidence in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s protective umbrella against potential aggression from Russia.
According to the survey, 54 percent of respondents believe that NATO would shield Poland in such a scenario, underscoring a majority’s trust in the alliance. However, a significant portion of the population, 30 percent, expressed skepticism regarding NATO’s readiness to aid Poland, while 16 percent remained undecided on the matter.
This ambivalence comes against the backdrop of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and the Kremlin’s aggressive policies in the region, alongside the intense U.S.-China rivalry that could potentially affect the American military presence in Poland in case of an attack.
During a visit to Poland in February last year, U.S. President Joe Biden reiterated America’s commitment to NATO’s Article 5, describing it as a “sacred, unbreakable promise” to defend any NATO member state. Biden emphasized the United States’ readiness “to protect every inch” of NATO territory, affirming that an attack on one member is considered an attack on all.
Despite skepticism in some quarters, former President Donald Trump has also assured that the U.S. would not abandon the alliance and would defend its members if attacked, contingent on NATO countries fulfilling their financial obligations.
Specifically, Trump pointed out the necessity for European nations to bear a “fair share” of defense costs, stressing that without U.S. support, NATO would cease to exist.
Trump’s remarks were made in a recent interview with U.K. conservative broadcaster Nigel Farage, highlighting the ongoing discourse about the equitable financial contributions within NATO and the U.S.’ role in ensuring the collective defense of its members.
