Amid the Russia-Ukraine war, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has issued a serious warning regarding Russia’s potential military strategy. Tusk states that Russia could target European nations supporting Ukraine—particularly those on NATO’s eastern flank—using drones or missiles. According to him, following such an attack, Russia might attempt to undermine NATO’s response by dismissing the incident as a mistake or an accident.
‘Russia could label an attack an accident’
In a speech delivered to the Polish parliament on Thursday, Donald Tusk remarked that Russia’s potential strategy might aim to create a situation among NATO members where, following an attack on one member state, other nations hesitate to come to its aid.
Tusk noted that the real danger lies in drones or missiles entering and causing damage in one or more countries on NATO’s eastern flank. Russia could then officially characterize the incident as a mistake, thereby weakening the grounds for a NATO response.
According to him, the objective of such a strategy could be to undermine NATO’s collective response and dampen the willingness of other nations to assist a member state under attack.
Growing concern over jet-powered drones
Tusk also highlighted Russia’s increasing use of jet-powered drones as a cause for concern. He noted that such drones can fly at higher altitudes and greater speeds, making it challenging for air defense systems to detect and intercept them in time.
For several months, the Polish Prime Minister has been warning about potential hybrid actions by Russia against NATO countries. Tusk states that information received from NATO, Ukraine, and US intelligence agencies substantiates his concerns.
Claims that border crossings are also being targeted
In recent days, Tusk has also stated that Russia is focusing on targeting border crossings between Ukraine and its European neighbors. According to him, the aim could be to disrupt supply lines for military and other essential aid destined for Ukraine. According to Tusk, four such incidents have occurred at the Poland-Ukraine border over the past week. He also noted that several incidents have taken place along Ukraine’s border with Moldova in recent weeks.
Tusk claims Russia seeks Ukraine’s total defeat
Regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, Tusk stated that Moscow does not appear ready for peace talks at present and seeks the total defeat of Ukraine. He described the upcoming winter as a period of serious challenge for Ukraine.
Tusk mentioned that Poland had delivered essential supplies and aid to Ukraine last winter when Russia targeted the country’s energy infrastructure. However, he noted that if border crossings are damaged, delivering aid to Ukraine could become increasingly difficult for Poland in the future.
He also claimed that, according to intelligence reports, six major Ukrainian cities could face sustained, massive attacks in the near future. Tusk stated that Russia is attempting to inflict maximum damage on Ukraine’s economy and logistics.
Tusk to visit Ukraine amidst drone attacks
Tusk announced on Thursday that he would travel to Ukraine between Thursday night and Friday. This announcement came shortly after reports emerged of a drone attack on a train near the Poland-Ukraine border.
Tusk stated that he would meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv. Discussions between the two leaders are expected to focus on measures to defend against new types of drones.
Earlier, the Norwegian Prime Minister had claimed that Zelenskyy’s plane had also faced a drone threat.
Increased activity regarding US military base in Poland
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump stated in a social media post on Thursday that significant progress is being made toward establishing a permanent US military base in Poland.
According to Trump, a US delegation visited Poland last week and inspected several potential sites for the base. He indicated that if the plan moves forward, the location could be announced soon. Poland has long been seeking a permanent US military presence in the country to bolster its security. Amidst security threats linked to Russia, Warsaw views this as a crucial measure to strengthen its defense posture. However, a final decision regarding a permanent US base has not yet been reached.
Poland has purchased large quantities of weaponry from the US
In recent years, Poland has significantly increased its defense spending and procured substantial amounts of military equipment and weaponry from the US. Meanwhile, the US administration is considering the possibility of establishing a permanent military base in Poland.
These developments come at a time when the US is reviewing its military presence and deployments in Europe. In May, some of the approximately 10,000 US troops stationed in Poland were withdrawn, sparking concern among Poland and its European allies. However, both nations later clarified that the withdrawal was only temporary.
