After the EU summit in Brussels, Tusk announced that Poland will soon report progress on regulatory cuts aimed at reducing business burdens. He highlighted EU-wide plans to cut excessive regulations for small and medium enterprises by 30% by June.
"Europe can no longer remain defenseless. It is now clear to everyone that Europe must take on more responsibility and defense tasks. We in Poland have known this for a long time," Tusk stated.
"I would like more European countries to make defense efforts similar to those of Poland. The stronger and better-armed Europe becomes, the safer Poland will be," emphasized the head of the Polish government.
Eastern Shield as an EU priority
Tusk confirmed that East Shield is now a permanent EU defense objective, highlighting Europe’s growing responsibility for its own security. He acknowledged that securing its inclusion required tough negotiations, as EU countries have competing financial interests.
With the Eastern Shield officially recognized, Poland expects greater shared investment in strengthening defenses along the eastern flank.
Addressing border concerns, Tusk dismissed opposition calls to close Poland’s western border with Germany, arguing it would harm citizens who rely on free movement.
He also informed Germany that Poland will no longer accept migrant returns under existing agreements, citing the strain of hosting Ukrainian refugees and managing eastern border pressures.
Lack of consensus on Ukraine aid
The summit failed to produce concrete new commitments for Ukraine, as Hungary opposed the EU’s military assistance strategy.
While most leaders reaffirmed their support, no additional funding was secured beyond previous pledges. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky appealed for at least €5 billion to bolster ammunition supplies, but final decisions were postponed.
Discussions will continue in Paris next week, where pro-Ukraine nations will explore alternative funding strategies.
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Source: IAR/PAP/X/@POLAND25EU/YouTube.com/KPRM
Click on the audio player above to listen to a report by Michał Owczarek.