Former President Donald Trump met with Polish President Andrzej Duda in New York, where they discussed Ukraine and Duda’s push for NATO defense spending. Duda, a supporter of Ukraine, has urged the U.S. to increase aid to Kyiv. Trump praised Duda as a friend and ally, indicating support for Poland. The meeting was part of a series with foreign leaders as Europe prepares for the possibility of Trump’s return to the White House.
In the meeting, Duda described it as friendly and fruitful, highlighting the positive relationship between Poland and the U.S. Trump has been meeting with foreign leaders to strengthen ties ahead of a potential return to the presidency, as U.S. allies seek to engage with him early in the campaign. Allies have been encouraging diplomats to reconnect with Trump in anticipation of a possible second term. These meetings aim to capitalize on declining approval of President Biden’s foreign policy decisions.
Foreign leaders meeting with Trump during the campaign have been a common practice, with both Obama and Romney doing the same in their campaigns. This outreach helps foreign leaders establish relationships with potential future presidents. Duda’s visit follows other meetings with European leaders, including British Foreign Secretary Cameron and Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán. Trump also met with Argentine President Milei, who ran a campaign inspired by Trump. Biden administration officials have been careful not to publicly criticize these meetings, acknowledging Trump’s chances in the race.
Duda’s visit comes as House Republicans debate a foreign aid bill for Ukraine, with Poland urging approval. Trump and Duda share a desire for NATO members to increase defense spending, with Duda calling for 3% of GDP to be allocated for defense. Trump’s critical stance on NATO and threats not to defend delinquent members challenge the alliance’s unity. The meeting also touched on Israel, the Middle East, and efforts for world peace. Duda’s relationship with Trump has been controversial in Poland, with some hoping he will use the meeting to advocate for Western values in the Ukrainian-Russian conflict.
