This resolution recognizes 250 years of Polish-American friendship while reaffirming the U.S. commitment to Poland's democracy, sovereignty, prosperity, and security.
Marcy Kaptur
Representative
OH-9
This resolution celebrates over 250 years of enduring friendship between the United States and Poland, highlighting their shared history and mutual democratic values. It reaffirms the vital U.S. interest in Poland's sovereignty, security, and prosperity. Furthermore, the resolution calls for continued close defense coordination and the presence of U.S. forces in Poland.
U.S. Resolution Reaffirms 250-Year Polish Alliance: Defense Spending and Troop Presence Take Center Stage
This resolution is a formal high-five to one of America’s oldest and most consistent allies. It outlines over two centuries of shared history—from Polish General Tadeusz Kościuszko fighting in the American Revolution to the 10,000 U.S. troops currently stationed in Poland. The bill explicitly recognizes Poland as a "steadfast ally" and reaffirms that the U.S. has a vital interest in Poland’s democracy and security. It’s a clear signal that the partnership isn't just about history books; it’s about modern strategic stability.
More Than Just a History Lesson
The resolution highlights Poland’s massive shift in defense policy since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Specifically, it notes that Poland has ramped up its defense spending to over 4.7 percent of its GDP—a figure that dwarfs the 2 percent target usually expected of NATO members. For a regular citizen, this means Poland is positioning itself as the primary shield on NATO’s eastern edge. The bill calls for the continued stationing of U.S. Armed Forces in Poland to handle training and capacity-building, ensuring that if you have a family member in the military, Poland remains a central hub for their missions in Europe.
The Shift Toward Ownership
A key provision in the text calls for Polish leaders to take "greater ownership of their own defense" in coordination with the U.S. This is policy-speak for a more balanced partnership. Instead of the U.S. carrying the full weight of regional security, the bill encourages a model where allies like Poland lead the way with their own hardware and personnel. For the American taxpayer, this shift is designed to create a more sustainable alliance where the burden of European security is shared more equitably among those living in the neighborhood.
Real-World Ties
Beyond the tanks and treaties, the resolution acknowledges the 5.5 million Polish citizens who signed declarations of friendship with the U.S. back in 1926 and the millions of Polish-Americans who celebrate Heritage Month every October. By linking historical humanitarian aid to modern-day refugee support—noting that Poland welcomed millions of Ukrainians—the bill frames the relationship as a two-way street. Whether you are a tech worker in a sister-city program or a soldier on a rotation in Poznań, this bill solidifies the legal and diplomatic framework that keeps those professional and personal connections moving forward.