Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has sharply criticized former US President Donald Trump’s recent statements on the Ukraine conflict, accusing him of attempting to shift the responsibility for ending the war from the United States to Europe.
Tusk’s remarks come in response to Trump’s claim that Ukraine could reclaim all its territories with the support of the European Union, a statement the Polish leader described as masking a broader intent to reduce American involvement.
In a public address, Trump suggested that robust EU backing could enable Ukraine to restore its territorial integrity, a comment Tusk labeled as “unexpected optimism.” Speaking to reporters in Warsaw, Tusk argued that this rhetoric conceals Washington’s desire to scale back its role in the ongoing conflict.
“This surprising optimism conceals a promise of reduced US involvement and a shift of responsibility for ending the war to Europe,” Tusk said. “Truth is better than illusion.”
Tusk’s critique underscores growing concerns among European leaders about the potential for diminished US support in addressing the Ukraine crisis. The Polish prime minister emphasized that Europe, while committed to supporting Ukraine, cannot bear the burden alone. He called for continued transatlantic cooperation, urging the US to maintain its strategic and financial commitments to Kyiv.
The comments reflect broader tensions as European nations navigate their roles in the conflict amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. Poland, a staunch supporter of Ukraine, has been a key player in providing military and humanitarian aid since the war began. Tusk’s remarks signal a demand for clarity and shared responsibility from major allies, particularly the United States.
As the conflict continues, Tusk’s statement highlights the challenges facing the transatlantic alliance in maintaining a unified front. With no immediate resolution in sight, the question of how responsibility is distributed among global powers remains a critical point of contention.