President Trump issued a firm warning Sunday that the US defense of Poland and Baltics is non-negotiable if Russia continues its aggressive maneuvers in NATO airspace. The remarks come after a recent series of Russian incursions, including Estonia reporting three MiG-31 fighter jets entering its airspace and Poland shooting down multiple drones.
Trump, speaking to reporters on the White House lawn, said bluntly, “Yeah, I would. I would,” when asked if the United States would come to the defense of these NATO allies. On the Estonian incident, he added, “Yeah, we don’t like it.”
The warning underscores the high stakes for countries that endured decades under Soviet domination. Estonia was a Soviet republic, while Poland and the other Baltic states were satellites. All are NATO members, meaning an attack could trigger Section 5, requiring collective defense.
Trump has previously criticized NATO members for underfunding their defense commitments but has recently pushed the alliance to impose stronger sanctions on Russia. He advocates targeting countries that purchase Russian oil and cutting off Kremlin resources used to wage war in Ukraine.
The Baltic nations are urging Congress to maintain military assistance under the Baltic Security Initiative, highlighting the ongoing threat. Their joint letter requested support for funding in the 2026 Defense Appropriations Bill, stressing the strategic importance of US backing.
