Donald Trump caused a storm with his words about NATO soldiers. Polish veterans react

During an interview with Fox News, Donald Trump said that until now NATO was a “one-way street” and America “never needed” allies and never asked them for anything. — You know, they'll say they sent troops to Afghanistan or Sudan, and they did. They stayed a little behind, a little away from the front line, he said.

These words caused a huge storm in many countries belonging to the Alliance. They are commented very critically by, among others, Polish veterans. — I had such mixed feelings. On the one hand, irritation, and on the other, great anger – says General Janusz Bronowicz, former commander of the Polish contingent in Afghanistan, in an interview with TVN24.

Polish veterans take a firm stance on Donald Trump's statements

He adds that in this way Trump “puts into question the achievements of allies.” The former commander of the GROM special unit, Gen. Roman Polko, also speaks in a highly critical tone. – This is the cynicism of a coward who was not on the front line himself – he says about the US president's statements.

At least 33,000 served in Afghanistan. Polish soldiers, and many of them did it directly on the battlefield. 44 Poles died. — I remember the death of our colleague, Corporal Michał Kołek, who died on my watch. I don't think he died at the back, on the second line. He died on the front line of carrying out his tasks that the Alliance entrusted to Poles in accordance with the mission – emphasizes Reserve Gen. Janusz Bronowicz.

Karol Nawrocki reacted to Donald Trump's words

On Friday evening, Karol Nawrocki also commented on Trump's words. “There is no doubt that Polish soldiers are heroes. They deserve respect and words of thanks for their service. 44 brave Poles died in Afghanistan: 43 soldiers and a civilian. They will remain in our memory forever!” – wrote the President of the Republic of Poland.