Tusk: Ukraine had bought time for Poland and EU

As reported by Polish broadcaster RMF24, responding to a question about whether the EU, given that the White Paper for European defence is planned until 2030, believed that Russia might attack another European country by that time, Tusk said that no such calculations were being made.

However, he expressed gratitude that his Danish counterpart, Mette Frederiksen, had proposed 2030 as the year by which the EU's defence capabilities should be radically increased.

Tusk emphasised that, due to Ukraine’s military efforts, Russia was unprepared for aggressive actions against NATO and EU countries. 

He stated that regardless of the war’s outcome, Ukraine had won invaluable time for Poland and all of Europe. Tusk also stressed the importance of remembering this fact when discussions arise about fatigue, whether related to refugees or military aid to Ukraine.

Tusk believes that Russia remains incapable of executing its plans against the rest of Europe because Ukraine has taken on the burden of direct confrontation with the aggressor.

As reported, the White Paper, which was presented in Brussels on 19 March, shapes a new approach to defence and identifies the EU's investment needs. The White Paper presents solutions to address critical capability gaps and build a strong defence industrial base.

In addition to building up European defence capabilities, it also envisages meeting Ukraine's immediate needs on the battlefield.