Polish PM warns against “illusions” over Trump’s Ukraine policy shift

Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk issued a stark warning, urging caution regarding US President Donald Trump’s recent rhetorical shift on Ukraine. While Trump expressed optimism that Kyiv could reclaim all territories occupied by Russia with the support of the European Union, Tusk cautioned that this stance masks a reduction in American involvement and a shifting of responsibility to Europe.

"President Trump stated that Ukraine, with the support of the European Union, could reclaim its entire territory," Tusk wrote on the social media platform X, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

"Behind this surprising optimism lies a promise of reduced US involvement and a shift of responsibility for ending the war to Europe. Better truth than illusions."

Trump’s comments on September 23 sparked a mixed response. Some viewed the statement as a hopeful sign of backing for Ukraine’s sovereignty, while others perceived it as an indication that the US intends to lessen its direct role, leaving Europe to shoulder a greater share of support for Kyiv amid Russia’s ongoing invasion.

Adding to the domestic discourse, Poland’s President Karol Nawrocki praised Trump’s remarks as “great,” highlighting a divergence in views within Poland’s leadership on how best to support Ukraine. Nawrocki emphasizes maintaining strong relations with the White House and advocates that the European Union should refrain from deep involvement in defence matters. Conversely, Tusk argues that the EU should actively participate alongside NATO and the United States in supporting Ukraine.

By Vafa Guliyeva