Ukraine's Recovery, Poland's Opportunity: A Vision for Shared Growth
Republic of Poland
10.07.2025
Ukraine continues to resist brutal Russian aggression every day, which is why the foremost task of the international community is to ensure its support. At the same time, we must look to the future - toward Ukraine's reconstruction and its integration into the European Union. Prime Minister Donald Tusk participated in the Ukraine Recovery Conference, held this year in Rome. Rebuilding Ukraine is not only an act of assistance - it is also a chance to develop joint projects that offer real, mutual benefits. Talks are underway for Poland to host next year's Ukraine Recovery Conference.
Transport, Trade, Investment — Pillars of Poland's Engagement Model
Since the very beginning of the Russian invasion, Poland has remained one of Ukraine's most active allies. So far, we have provided over €25 billion in humanitarian, military, and refugee assistance. Today, we are going a step further. Prime Minister Tusk presented a coherent model of Poland's involvement in Ukraine's reconstruction, built around three strategic pillars:
"Transport, trade, investment — that is the triangle on which we want to build. Because rebuilding Ukraine also means connecting it to Europe. That is the deeper meaning of connection. We are laying the groundwork for Ukraine's future EU membership," said Tusk during the opening session.
In the area of transport, Poland plans to invest in its road, rail, and communications infrastructure. Currently, 90% of military equipment bound for Ukraine is transported via Polish routes — and these same corridors will be used in the coming years to deliver materials and goods essential for reconstruction.
"While I — and Poland as a whole — advocate strong support for Ukraine in its war with Russia, we also want Polish companies to participate on a large scale and to profit from this major reconstruction effort. These talks are very promising," Tusk said during a briefing in Rome.
Poland also plays a major role in trade — 30% of all EU exports to Ukraine come from Poland. As trade grows, so too do investment opportunities.
Bilateral Meetings and International Agreements by the Polish Delegation
Prime Minister Tusk also took part in a meeting of the so-called Coalition of the Willing, alongside leaders from the UK, France, Italy, Germany, Denmark, as well as the President of Ukraine, President of the European Commission, and the NATO Secretary General.
Tusk met separately with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Discussions focused on facilitating large-scale projects involving companies such as Orlen, LOT, and Polish state-owned banks — as well as private entities in need of government support.
"President Zelenskyy and I agreed that some business ventures should be covered by joint oversight under a government-to-government framework. This allows for simplified procedures and recognition of shared strategic goals," said Tusk.
Tusk also held talks with Odile Renaud-Basso, President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
Parallel to the main sessions, Polish ministers responsible for state assets, finance, and development & technology met with Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko and representatives of companies from the Polish Development Fund (PFR) group. The focus was direct support for Polish business investment in Ukraine.
A key outcome of the conference was the signing of a joint declaration between Poland and the United Kingdom on deepening their partnership in Ukraine's reconstruction. The agreement includes close cooperation on investment, reform, and modernization efforts, as well as attracting private capital. Both sides also announced plans to organize a business forum in Rzeszów.
Talks on Hosting the 2026 Ukraine Recovery Conference in Poland
There is a strong possibility that the 2026 edition of the Ukraine Recovery Conference will be held in Poland. This would be a powerful recognition of Poland's role in the region and its tangible contributions to Ukraine's support.
"If the whole world is interested in Ukraine's recovery, then it should also be interested in the Rzeszów hub, roads, and border crossings — everything on Polish territory — being in the best possible condition and properly funded. That's one of the reasons why Poland is a natural host," said Tusk.
According to the Prime Minister, organizing such a conference in Poland would emphasize that our country's support for Ukraine goes beyond humanitarian and military aid — it includes concrete infrastructure such as roads, rail lines, the Rzeszów logistics hub, and Jasionka airport. These assets already provide vital support and will be key to Ukraine's reconstruction.
The Ukraine Recovery Conference is the leading international forum dedicated to the country's postwar recovery. It brings together governments, financial institutions, international organizations, businesses, local authorities, and NGOs to analyze Ukraine's needs and develop actionable mechanisms. Previous editions were held in Lugano (2022), London (2023), Berlin (2024), and Rome (2025).
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