Morten Lyhne Petersen
EU and NATO will step up to take over defense in the area.
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The US is aiming to increase efficiency and reduce spending, which will be achieved by moving their supporting troops from the main Ukranine aid hub in Poland. Germany will instead cover the defense positions in the area.
US to Pull Troops and Equipment from Rzeszów, Poland
The United States has announced that it will relocate military personnel and equipment from the southeastern Polish city of Rzeszów to other locations within Poland. This marks a shift in the US military’s presence in the region, with broader implications for NATO coordination and cost-efficiency.
Shift in US Military Strategy
This decision reflects a broader change in strategy, aimed at redistributing resources more effectively within Poland. The move is intended to adjust the American military footprint while maintaining support for allies and ongoing operations.
Cost-Saving Move
US officials say the repositioning will save American taxpayers tens of millions of dollars every year. At the same time, NATO and Polish forces will take on more responsibility for overseeing security around Rzeszów.
Rzeszów’s Strategic Role
Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Rzeszów—especially its Jasionka airport—has served as the main hub for transporting military equipment and humanitarian aid into Ukraine. It also became a key transit point for diplomats and officials entering and exiting the war zone.
Strong US Military Presence
To protect this critical supply line, the United States established a significant military presence around the city, including Patriot missile batteries guarding the airport. In 2022, President Joe Biden visited US forces stationed there, highlighting the area’s importance.
New US Army Statement
On Monday, US Army Europe and Africa (USAREUR-AF) confirmed that equipment and personnel will be relocated from Jasionka to other parts of Poland. Officials described this as the result of extensive planning and coordination with Polish and NATO partners.
Strategy Shift, Not Withdrawal
The US emphasized that this is not a withdrawal, but rather an optimization of military operations. The essential work of delivering aid to Ukraine through Jasionka will continue under Polish and NATO leadership, while the US maintains a leaner presence in the region.
Germany Steps In
Germany has already taken over some of the defensive responsibilities in Rzeszów. In January, it deployed two Patriot missile batteries to the area, allowing the US to begin scaling back. Poland’s defense minister praised the move as a sign of strong NATO unity.
Praise for Poland
General Christopher Donahue, head of USAREUR-AF, expressed deep appreciation for Poland’s hospitality and support. He noted that the US has been transitioning to more permanent and sustainable facilities in other parts of the country.
Long-Term US Presence
The United States remains committed to Poland. In 2022, it announced the opening of its first permanent military base on NATO’s eastern flank. A missile defense site also became operational in 2023. Today, about 10,000 US troops are stationed in the country.
Transition with Gratitude
Daniel Lawton, the top-ranking US diplomat in Poland, thanked the people of Jasionka for warmly welcoming American personnel and officials over the past three years. He said the transition will allow the US to continue working closely with Poland while using its resources more efficiently.
US-Poland Relations Remain Strong
Ties between the two countries remain solid. Poland is NATO’s biggest relative defense spender and has purchased significant US military equipment. Just last week, the two governments signed a nearly $2 billion deal for US logistical support and training related to Poland’s Patriot systems.
