Poland’s President Andrzej Duda has expressed a clear openness to hosting not only American nuclear weapons but also French ones on Polish soil, as tensions continue to simmer on NATO’s eastern flank.
In an interview with Bloomberg published on Friday, Duda didn’t mince words. With Russia’s unpredictable aggression still looming over Eastern Europe, he stressed Poland’s willingness to boost its national security through nuclear deterrence, regardless of the source.
“I believe we can accept both solutions,” Duda said during the interview in Warsaw. “These two ideas are neither contradictory nor mutually exclusive.”
France’s Nuclear Shield Gains Appeal
The conversation follows a suggestion from French President Emmanuel Macron to extend France’s nuclear umbrella across Europe. With France boasting around 300 nuclear warheads—the only EU country with such an arsenal—the move could help shield allies like Poland from potential Russian threats.
France is one of only three nuclear-armed NATO members, alongside the United States and the United Kingdom.
As the war in Ukraine rages on, fears grow that the Kremlin may shift its focus westward. Macron’s proposal is being taken seriously by more than just Poland. Denmark has also shown interest in sheltering under France’s nuclear protection.
Poland Eyes Dual Nuclear Backing
President Duda has been vocal in his call for the deployment of U.S. nuclear arms in Poland. But his latest comments signal a broader approach. A dual-backup strategy—embracing both U.S. and French deterrence—may soon be on the table.
And he’s not alone. In March, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, from a different political camp than Duda, confirmed that Warsaw is engaged in “serious talks” with Paris on the matter.
The timing isn’t coincidental. Warnings from Washington have hinted that a future U.S. administration—possibly led by Donald Trump—may be less willing to guarantee Europe’s defence.
Poland’s Military Build-up
Beyond nuclear considerations, Poland is rapidly ramping up its conventional forces. In recent years, Warsaw has heavily invested in its military, transforming it into the largest fighting force in the European Union.
- Current troop count: 200,000 active personnel
- Future goal: A 500,000-strong army
- Motivation: Deterring Russian aggression and safeguarding Polish sovereignty
It’s a bold move. But for Poland, it may be necessary.
Conclusion
As geopolitical uncertainty grips Europe, Poland is looking in multiple directions for security guarantees. President Duda’s endorsement of both American and French nuclear protection marks a significant shift in the continent’s defence dynamics.
Whether these discussions turn into deployments remains to be seen. But one thing is clear—Poland is not waiting around.
