In Warsaw, Polish call center worker Katarzyna Paprota, 48, expresses deep concern about the significant shift in United States policy towards Russia and Ukraine. She reflects on the evolving situation stating, "The foreign policy of the United States scares me a lot." recalling a sense of stability following Poland's NATO and European Union memberships, which she now sees as transient. Paprota shares her unease while standing near Warsaw's iconic Palace of Culture and Science, a symbol of Russian influence during communism.
Recent remarks by Trump regarding Ukraine, Russia, and European defense have shattered the long-held belief in Washington as Europe's security guarantor. Poles are apprehensive that Trump's stance may embolden Russian President Vladimir Putin, leading to further aggression.
Notably, 66-year-old veteran Henryk Marut expresses concerns over Trump's unpredictability, particularly his recent comments blaming Ukraine for the conflict. Marut, citing historical context, fears a potential Russian expansion beyond Ukraine.
In Riga, 84-year-old Latvian pensioner Silvija Spriedniece echoes similar apprehensions, likening Putin to past aggressors, Stalin and Hitler. She voices skepticism about the impact of Trump's actions on regional stability.
Another pensioner, 73-year-old Imants Robeznieks, emphasizes the necessity of a united European response amidst the warming relations between Putin and Trump. He underscores the urgency for Europe, especially Paris, to devise a strategy to mitigate potential adversities.