WARSAW, April 24 – Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk has raised serious doubts about America’s willingness to stand by its NATO commitments should Russia launch an assault on European territory, according to statements he made to the Financial Times.
In remarks that highlight mounting concerns across Europe about President Donald Trump’s unpredictable approach to foreign policy and his criticisms of European allies, Tusk emphasized the urgent need for the European Union to transform into a “real alliance” capable of defending the continent.
During an interview published Friday in the British publication, Tusk described the uncertainty surrounding NATO’s readiness as the continent’s most pressing concern. “For the whole eastern flank, my neighbours… the question is if NATO is still an organisation ready, politically and also logistically, to react, for example against Russia if they try to attack,” he stated.
The Polish leader characterized the possibility of Russian aggression as “something really serious” and stressed the immediate nature of the threat.
“I’m talking about short-term perspectives, rather months than years… For us, it’s really important to know that everyone will treat the NATO obligations as seriously as Poland,” Tusk explained.
These comments came as Tusk participated in an unofficial European Union gathering in Cyprus, where leaders are also addressing Middle Eastern conflicts, energy policy responses, and the bloc’s upcoming long-term financial planning.
Looking toward potential changes in EU defense cooperation, Tusk mentioned the possibility of strengthening Article 42.7 of the EU treaty – the mutual defense provision – particularly following the eventual departure of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who maintains close ties with Russia.
“What you need if you want to have, not only on paper, a real alliance, is true tools and real power when it comes to defence instruments and mobility of militaries from country to country etc. It’s a very practical problem for today,” he remarked.
Tusk outlined his broader vision for European security, stating: “This is why my obsession now and my mission is to reintegrate Europe. It means common defence… a common effort to protect our eastern borders.”
