Uncertainties in the US

Bush said his administration would work out a detailed plan to modernize the Polish military before his term expires in January, but analysts believe that to finish such a task within the time frame would be difficult.

Moreover, the huge Polish demand for weapons, military aid and closer ties may scare the US government. Even if the Bush administration agrees, it might be stalled by the Democrat-controlled Congress.

A final agreement on the missile shield system between the two countries has been delayed several times since negotiations were resumed in January 2007, and Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski said recently the talks would last for another several months before a deal is reached.

(Xinhua News Agency March 13, 2008)