US Greenlights $3.5 Billion Worth of Missile Sales to Poland

The U.S. Department of State has given the green light for Poland to potentially purchase advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles for approximately $1.69 billion, as stated by the Pentagon on Tuesday.

In addition, the State Department has also approved the potential sale of up to 128 surface-to-air missiles to Poland for an estimated $1.77 billion, along with sidewinder missiles for around $219.1 million.

President Joe Biden reaffirmed the unwavering U.S. support for Poland during a meeting with the country’s leaders, amidst concerns in Europe regarding Russian aggression potentially extending beyond Ukraine’s borders.

Biden and Poland’s president and prime minister convened at the White House to assess the current security situation and the possible implications of recent Russian advancements in Ukraine for the region.

Polish President Andrzej Duda raised the issue of NATO allies increasing their defense spending from 2% to 3% of GDP in response to what he referred to as “Russia’s full-scale war near NATO’s eastern border.”

Biden emphasized U.S. commitment to NATO’s Article 5 mutual defense treaty and expressed strong support for Poland as a NATO member for 25 years, stressing that American support is steadfast.

The president also urged Congress to pass legislation providing $60 billion in security aid for Ukraine, emphasizing the urgency to act promptly to prevent further Russian aggression that could jeopardize Europe and the U.S.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk highlighted the necessity for NATO to enhance its capabilities on the eastern flank to deter Russia, positioning Poland as a crucial ally in ensuring the security of the Western world.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan disclosed plans to offer 96 Apache attack helicopters to Poland and approve a $2 billion direct foreign aid loan for Warsaw during the meeting with Polish leaders.

The discussions are expected to include preparations for the upcoming annual NATO summit scheduled for July 9-11 in Washington.

Pleas for American Help

Before the talks, Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski called on House Speaker Mike Johnson to allow a vote on the Ukraine funds, highlighting the potential consequences if the aid was not delivered. He also appealed to Johnson’s Baptist faith, citing Russia’s persecution of religious minorities in Ukrainian territories under Russian control.

Sikorski emphasized Poland’s support for Ukraine by participating in a plan to purchase ammunition led by the Czech Republic and making a substantial financial contribution towards the initiative.