Egyptian demonstrators perform the Friday prayers at Cairo's Tahrir Square on April 1, 2011 as tens of thousands of Egyptians gathered, issuing calls to "save the revolution" that ousted president Hosni Mubarak and to rid of the country of the old regime. AFP PHOTO/STR (Photo credit should read -/AFP/Getty Images)

Shameless.

WARSAW, Poland (AP) — Capping an extensive trip to Europe, President Barack Obama said Saturday that the United States must always “leave room” to throw financial and moral support behind nations fighting for freedoms even during times of employment troubles and high gas prices at home.

In Poland, which Obama hailed as world model of democratic transition, he said it is the responsibility of the U.S. to support the sometimes wrenching, roiling push for democracy and human rights around the globe. In defending his drive to improve U.S. relations with Russia, Obama also made clear to protect Poland’s security against any threats in its neighborhood, leaving no doubt about the NATO code of members: “We defend each other.”

The president sought to build his case that America and the international community have a vested stake in the Arab revolt that is defining much of North Africa and the Middle East. He said the U.S. cannot dictate outcomes but can help, and he cited Poland as inspiration.

“Poland’s story demonstrates how a proud and determined and enthusiastic people can overcome extraordinary challenges and build a democracy,” the president said at a brief news conference as his six-day trip to Ireland, England, France and Poland neared its end.