Warsaw: Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski expressed disapproval on Friday over US President Donald Trump’s comments regarding NATO troops’ involvement in Afghanistan, specifically addressing the service of Polish soldiers.

According to Anadolu Agency, Sikorski took to the US social media platform X to emphasize that the soldiers of Poland should not be mocked. He highlighted the challenging conditions faced by Polish troops in Ghazni, a region in the Pashtun south known for its difficulty and danger. Sikorski’s comments came in response to Trump’s statement that NATO troops remained “a little back, a little off the front lines” during the Afghan conflict.

Polish President Karol Nawrocki also weighed in, affirming the heroism of Polish soldiers. He reminded the public of the sacrifices made, noting that 44 Poles, including 43 soldiers and one civilian, lost their lives in Afghanistan. Nawrocki emphasized that their service deserves respect and gratitude.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk shared his experience from 2011 when he attended a farewell ceremony for Polish troops. He recalled American officers expressing their appreciation for Polish soldiers, asserting that America would always remember their contributions. Tusk suggested that President Trump should be reminded of these sentiments.

Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz also rejected Trump’s remarks, underscoring the sacrifices made by Polish soldiers for international security. He stressed that their contributions should not be diminished or forgotten.

In a related response, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized Trump’s comments as “insulting and frankly appalling.” Starmer mentioned that if he had made such a statement, he would certainly apologize.