In Brussels, Prime Minister Tusk Calls for Unity and Resolve
22.01.2026
"Trust, not coercion, was the key to the entire Transatlantic Community, and to the security of both the EU and the United States. We must remember that,” Prime Minister Donald Tusk said shortly before the informal meeting of the European Council in Brussels. European leaders convened in connection with U.S. claims regarding Greenland. The head of government stressed that Europe must act calmly, responsibly, and together, protecting the foundations of security and its relations with American partners. At the same time, a temporary crisis in relations with the United States must not push the issue of peace in Ukraine to the sidelines, as the security of all Europe depends on it.
Acting as a Political Community
The aim of the meeting of European leaders in Brussels is to strengthen Europe’s political unity. A shared position among states is what is most valuable today and provides real leverage in international talks.
“I would like us to very clearly confirm that we will be able to act as a political community in response to various proposals or events, whether it is Greenland, or the Peace Council, and above all Ukraine,” Prime Minister Donald Tusk said.
The head of government made it clear that the situation in Ukraine cannot be relegated to the background, because Europe’s, and the West’s, security depends on it. Emotions and other disputes must not distract attention from the most important geopolitical challenges.
“It cannot be that, because of unnecessary turmoil, the issue of Ukraine slips to the sidelines. This is a key issue for our security,” the Prime Minister emphasized.
Europe and its partners must refocus on what truly determines the continent’s stability.
“Without any doubt, a Europe that is united and focused on protecting transatlantic relations from crisis is something absolutely invaluable,” the head of government said.
European unity does not mean confrontation, but a consistent defense of shared interests and values that have built the continent’s stability for years. For Poland and for Europe as a whole, continuity of dialogue and avoiding actions that could lead to an escalation of tensions are crucial.
Greenland and Transatlantic Relations
The Greenland issue is a test of the maturity of international cooperation. Any disputes should be resolved through civilized methods, without coercion or threats. Force and pressure are not values that guided the creation of the European Union.
“I am absolutely convinced that coercion cannot be used in relations with partners. The European Union was created so that coercion would not constitute a tool in international politics,” the Prime Minister said.
Europe must clearly communicate its position in contacts with the United States, while also ensuring mutual respect.
“As Prime Minister of Poland, I am committed to transatlantic relations. Understanding the difference between domination and leadership is crucial for them,” Donald Tusk stressed.
The Prime Minister also referred to recent decisions and announcements by the administration of President Donald Trump. Europe’s relations with the United States are going through a more difficult moment, but they are not threatened in the long term.
“Thanks to decades of transatlantic ties, Poland is free and safe. Regardless of various tensions and crises, the community always won. Let’s persevere,” the Prime Minister appealed.
The Prime Minister also recalled the importance of shared responsibility within NATO and each country’s defense spending.
“We were the first to draw conclusions from the growing threat and to seriously begin investing in our defense capabilities. No one had to force us to do it,” the Prime Minister reminded.
Poland is a model for other NATO countries in terms of defense spending. This year, we will allocate more than PLN 200 billion to this purpose, almost 5% of GDP.
Partners Outside the European Union
Donald Tusk emphasized that Europe is not only the European Union, but also close partners who understand the priorities on the European continent and today’s geopolitical challenges.
“Cooperation between Poland and the EU with the United Kingdom, Canada, or Norway is exemplary. I would like us today to confirm that we will be able to act as a community in response to various events,” the Prime Minister stated.
Relations with these countries strengthen the security of all Europe and show that a community of values, such as freedom, peace, and democracy, extends beyond formal structures.