Historic Summit in London - Western Leaders Stand Together for Security and Ukraine
Republic of Poland - The Chancellery of the Prime Minister
02.03.2025
Europe has the potential to become a global military power, but it must believe in its own capabilities and act together. The historic summit in London brought together many Western leaders, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the need for decisive action in support of Ukraine, strengthening Europe's security, and reinforcing the alliance with the United States. After the meeting, Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized that the leaders were in agreement on these issues. This unity is crucial for continued support for Kyiv and the security of the entire region. A special meeting of the European Council will be held on March 6 to discuss concrete proposals prepared by the European Commission.
Europe's Security is Our Common Concern
After the summit, Prime Minister Donald Tusk underlined that Poland's stance on Ukraine has broad support among leaders. None of the participants had any doubts about which side to stand on - Ukraine's.
"Poland's position perfectly reflected the mood in the room [...]. Ukraine requires continuous support and the strongest possible position before negotiations with Russia. No one has any doubts about who the aggressor is, who the victim is, and where Europe stands in this conflict. Of course, on Ukraine's side," - assured Donald Tusk during a press conference following the summit in London.
"Poland's national interest requires unequivocal, lasting support for Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. This is non-negotiable," - added the Polish Prime Minister.
Tusk emphasized Poland's key role in ensuring regional security and the necessity of increasing Europe's involvement in defense.
"Our country bears a special responsibility for the security of the eastern border of the European Union and NATO. This is not just a military issue but also a political one - we are a frontline state that must be prepared for all scenarios. Our security is simultaneously the stability of all of Europe."
"Poland is already an unmatched model in this regard, but I am pleased that more and more countries, beyond words and declarations, are beginning to implement the obvious need to increase defense spending. It was very important to me to hear that strengthening the eastern flank is an absolute priority for all of Europe, including the European Union," - said Donald Tusk.
Building Europe's Defense Capabilities
In light of growing geopolitical challenges, Prime Minister Donald Tusk highlighted the need to build up Europe's capacity for self-defense. Europe is an economic and military power, but to effectively ensure its security, it must believe in its own strength and act collectively. Tusk stressed that Europe should not be isolated but must be independent in defense matters because only a well-prepared and strong Europe can guarantee peace on the continent.
"Europe, together with Ukraine, has twice as many fighter jets as Russia, and in terms of the number of professional soldiers, our advantage over Russia is clear. The issue is not numbers but a lack of belief in our own strength," - observed Donald Tusk.
The Prime Minister presented data from The International Institute for Strategic Studies, showing that Europe, together with Ukraine, possesses twice as many fighter jets as Russia and has a significant advantage in the number of professional soldiers.
"The paradox is that 500 million Europeans are asking 300 million Americans to defend them against 140 million Russians. We must rely on ourselves, fully aware of our potential and with confidence that we are a global power," - emphasized the Polish Prime Minister, pointing to the need to rethink Europe's role.
According to the presented data, Europe and Ukraine have 2.6 million professional soldiers, while Russia has 1.1 million. A similar advantage applies to combat aircraft, with 2,991 on the side of Europe and Ukraine compared to 1,224 in Russia. In terms of artillery, Europe, including Ukraine, significantly outpaces Russia, possessing 14,400 units versus Russia's 5,157.
Transatlantic Cooperation and Future Actions
"There is no room for doubt. We support Ukraine and strengthen our alliance with the United States - regardless of difficult circumstances," - assured the Prime Minister.
Poland is particularly committed to ensuring that Europe becomes as strong as possible while maintaining close relations with the United States. There is no contradiction between strengthening Europe's defense and the Transatlantic Alliance - both objectives must be pursued simultaneously.
The Polish Prime Minister also supported an initiative by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to organize a Europe-U.S. summit. Such a meeting could help reinforce transatlantic cooperation in security matters.
"I unequivocally supported Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's proposal that Europe and the United States find a way and a platform for continuous and very open discussions with each other, exchanging views to understand each other as well as possible before negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. Everything must be done to ensure that Europe and the United States speak with one voice," - said Prime Minister Tusk.
In London, Prime Minister Donald Tusk met with leaders from France, Germany, Denmark, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Finland, Sweden, the Czech Republic, Romania, Turkey, the President of the European Council, the President of the European Commission, NATO's Secretary General, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
The discussions among EU leaders will continue on March 6 in Brussels during the special European Council meeting, where key decisions will be made regarding support for Ukraine and increasing Europe's defense capabilities.
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