Poland is ready to spend billions of dollars to invite the US to open a base to "test Russia's strength"
Poland is ready to pay $1.5-2 billion for the US to deploy a permanent military base in the country to send a message to Russia, Sputnik reported.
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US forces in Poland. Photo: AFP |
Sputnik on May 28 quoted a document from the Polish Ministry of Defense as saying: "This proposal points to the need for the permanent deployment of US forces in Poland. Poland pledges to be ready to support approximately $1.5 billion to $2 billion to establish joint and flexible military facilities for US forces. Together, the US and Poland can build an even stronger relationship to ensure the safety, security and freedom of the Polish people for generations to come."
The draft shows that Poland is ready to share the burden of military spending with the US. According to the Polish Ministry of Defense, the deployment of US troops in Poland would send a strong message to Russia that Washington is ready to defend its allies in Eastern Europe.
"A permanent deployment of US forces in Poland would send a clear message to Russia about US support for its Eastern European allies," the document said.
Polish authorities have confirmed the authenticity of the document.
Poland is a member of NATO and has agreed with US President Donald Trump's call for NATO members to share the financial burden with the United States.
NATO has increased its presence in Eastern Europe since Russia annexed Crimea in 2014. Russia has repeatedly objected to NATO's build-up of forces close to its borders, saying it could spark a new arms race in the region.