EU's Support for Poland Amid Belarus Border Tensions

On August 31, 2025, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen visited the Polish-Belarusian border alongside Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. This visit was part of a broader tour of frontline EU states, including Latvia, Finland, Estonia, Bulgaria, Lithuania, and Romania, aimed at reinforcing the EU's commitment to member states facing challenges from Russia and Belarus. Von der Leyen expressed gratitude to Poland for its role in defending Europe against what she termed "cynical hybrid attacks" orchestrated by Russian President Vladimir Putin. She emphasized the urgency of maintaining a strong defense posture, stating, “He can only be kept in check through strong deterrence.”

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Since 2021, Poland has been grappling with a migration crisis at its eastern border, which has been exacerbated by Belarus's actions in facilitating the illegal entry of thousands of migrants from the Middle East, Africa, and Asia into the EU. Polish officials have labeled these actions, along with disinformation campaigns, as a "hybrid war" against Poland and the EU, attributing responsibility to both Belarus and Russia. Recent incidents, such as a Molotov cocktail attack from the Belarusian side, underscore the heightened tensions along this border.

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During the press conference, Tusk highlighted the historical significance of the border, linking it to the legacy of the Solidarity movement, which played a crucial role in the collapse of communism in Poland. He stated, “This border is just as important today as our dream of liberation from Soviet domination was then.” Tusk called for a united front among Poland, Europe, NATO, and the United States against what he described as the "latest version of the evil empire," referring to Russia's aggressive actions.

Notes from Poland

Von der Leyen reiterated the EU's commitment to Poland, stating, “Europe’s borders are a shared responsibility.” She noted that financial resources have been allocated for defense spending and border protection, with further investments planned in the upcoming EU budget. Tusk echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for a tough stance against Russia to ensure European security.

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Despite the unified front presented by von der Leyen and Tusk, there are underlying tensions regarding Poland's foreign policy direction. Tusk's government has indicated a shift away from reliance on the United States for security, opting instead to align more closely with EU strategies. This contrasts with the previous administration's approach, which had emphasized stronger ties with the U.S. Critics within Poland have raised concerns about the humanitarian treatment of migrants, suggesting that the current government's hardline stance may overlook the complexities of the migration crisis.

Notes from Poland

• “We are here to show true European determination.” — Donald Tusk, Polish Prime Minister

Notes from Poland

• “for years now, the Polish people have been facing deliberate and cynical hybrid attacks, and I want to emphasise that Europe stands with you in all possible ways” — Ursula von der Leyen, European Commission President

Notes from Poland

• “A secure Poland, a secure border, means a secure Europe.” — Donald Tusk, Polish Prime Minister

Notes from Poland

Following this visit, the European Commission plans to prepare a roadmap for additional defense investments in the EU, which will be discussed in upcoming meetings. The situation at the Polish-Belarusian border remains a focal point for EU security discussions, particularly in light of ongoing tensions with Russia.

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