EU Solidarity with Poland Amidst Belarus Border Tensions

On August 31, 2025, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk visited the Polish-Belarusian border at Ozierany Male. This visit was part of von der Leyen's tour of frontline EU states, aimed at reinforcing solidarity against perceived threats from Russia and Belarus. During the visit, von der Leyen expressed gratitude to Poland for its role in defending Europe from what she termed “cynical hybrid attacks” orchestrated by Belarus and supported by Russia. Tusk emphasized the importance of a united front against Russian aggression, stating, “Poland, Europe, NATO, and the United States must once again be very tough, decisive and united against this latest version of the evil empire.”

Politico EuropeNotes from PolandEuronewsTusk and von der Leyen inspect Polish-Belarus borderTusk and von der Leyen visit Poland–Belarus border as EU defence funding gathers paceTusk says no "subtle game" with Putin leads to success

Since 2021, Poland has faced a migration crisis at its eastern border, which Polish officials attribute to Belarus's encouragement of illegal crossings by migrants from the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. This situation has been characterized by Polish leaders as a “hybrid war,” involving not only migration but also disinformation campaigns and other destabilizing actions supported by Russia. The Polish interior ministry has stated that “full responsibility lies with Belarus,” highlighting the ongoing tensions at the border.

Tusk and von der Leyen inspect Polish-Belarus border

During the visit, von der Leyen reiterated the EU's commitment to enhancing defense capabilities, noting that Poland is currently the largest defense spender in Europe, allocating approximately 4.5% of its GDP to defense, with plans to increase this to 4.8% next year. She highlighted the importance of the SAFE program, which aims to mobilize €150 billion for joint defense procurement, with Poland expected to be a significant beneficiary. Tusk remarked that the border's security is as crucial today as the historical struggle for liberation from Soviet domination, linking past efforts to current geopolitical challenges.

Euronews

Von der Leyen stated, “We have to keep this sense of urgency because we know that Putin has not changed and will not change. He is a predator…He can only be kept in check through strong deterrence.” Tusk echoed this sentiment, asserting that “no concessions, no subtle game with Vladimir Putin and aggressive Russia will lead to success or guarantee our security.” Both leaders underscored the necessity for a robust European response to the ongoing threats.

Notes from Poland

While the visit was largely framed as a show of solidarity, some critics argue that the emphasis on military deterrence may escalate tensions further. Concerns have been raised about the potential for increased militarization of the border and the implications for regional stability. Critics also question the effectiveness of a purely military response to the complex issues surrounding migration and security.

Tusk and von der Leyen visit Poland–Belarus border as EU defence funding gathers pace

The visit concluded with a commitment to further discussions on defense investments and border security, as the EU prepares to finalize its long-term budget, which includes increased funding for migration management and defense initiatives. The Commission plans to present a roadmap for future defense investments, aiming to address existing gaps and enhance Europe’s collective security posture by 2030.

Poland to be biggest beneficiary as EU Member States fully subscribe to €150 billion SAFE plan

• “Poland, Europe, NATO, and the United States must once again be very tough, decisive and united against this latest version of the evil empire,” — Donald Tusk, Prime Minister of Poland

Notes from Poland

• “We have to keep this sense of urgency because we know that Putin has not changed and will not change. He is a predator…He can only be kept in check through strong deterrence,” — Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission

Notes from Poland

• “This border is as important today as our dream of liberation from Soviet domination was 45 years ago,” — Donald Tusk, Prime Minister of Poland

Tusk and von der Leyen inspect Polish-Belarus border

• “Full responsibility lies with Belarus,” — Polish Interior Ministry Statement

Notes from Poland

• “We have to keep this sense of urgency because we know that Putin has not changed and will not change.” — Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission

Notes from Poland