Polish President Andrzej Duda is once again calling for the deployment of U.S. nuclear weapons in Poland, arguing that a stronger deterrent is needed as Russia steps up its military presence in neighboring Belarus.
In an interview with the Financial Times published on March 13, Duda confirmed that he has revived his push for a U.S.-Poland nuclear-sharing agreement—this time under the Trump administration, with whom he says talks have already begun.
“NATO’s borders moved eastward in 1999, so after 26 years, its infrastructure should move eastward as well,” Duda said. “I believe it is not just the right time—it would be safer if these weapons were already here.”
He said he recently discussed the proposal with Trump adviser Keith Kellogg, and suggested that the U.S. could relocate some of its nuclear warheads currently based in Western Europe or the United States to Polish territory.
A Response to Russia's Nuclear Moves
Duda specifically pointed to Russia’s 2023 deployment of tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, a move made without warning or consultation.
“Russia didn’t even hesitate when relocating its nuclear weapons to Belarus,” Duda said. “They didn’t ask anyone for permission.”
Poland, which borders both Belarus and Ukraine, has become increasingly vocal about its security concerns as the war drags on and as speculation mounts over a possible Trump-brokered peace deal with Russia—something many in Warsaw fear could favor Moscow.
While Duda has been the most outspoken on the issue, he’s not alone.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk has also endorsed the idea of strengthening Poland’s nuclear deterrent, though with more caution. He recently confirmed that Poland is in talks with France about President Emmanuel Macron’s idea of a European “nuclear umbrella.”
Duda first floated the idea of nuclear sharing in 2022 during President Joe Biden’s term, but the Biden administration declined to publicly endorse the concept at the time.
Now, with a more assertive Trump administration in office and NATO allies watching Russia's every move, Duda believes the time is right.
Civilian Preparations Underway
Poland isn’t just focusing on military deterrence—it’s also preparing its civilian population for emergencies.
The country’s Ministry of the Interior and Administration announced this week that every household will receive a “crisis preparedness guide” by the end of the year.
The booklet, developed with the Ministry of National Defense and the Government Security Center, will include tips on surviving without assistance for 72 hours during disasters, including power outages, natural catastrophes, and war.
“For three days, all citizens, every household, will be able to survive on their own,” said Robert Klonowski, deputy director of the Department of Population Protection and Crisis Management.
