Polish PM Donald Tusk Says Peace in Ukraine Unlikely Soon, Plans Autumn Military Drills

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk told journalists in Paris on July 14, 2026 that a cease-fire or peace agreement in Ukraine “seems unlikely … in the near future” because of “the rigid stance of Russia and Putin.” He added that “everyone expects an escalation of actions from Russia at this time, and it’s quite likely that Russia will want to prolong this war at least until the winter.” Tusk said he had discussed the situation with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

ReutersThe Straits Times

Tusk announced that Poland will host joint military exercises with French and British forces in the autumn. The drills are intended to ready the “entire coalition (of the willing) … for real security guarantees for Ukraine, but also for the region” after a future cease-fire or peace settlement. He framed the exercises as a preventive measure, emphasizing preparedness rather than direct combat involvement.

Reuters

• “At this point, it seems unlikely that a ceasefire or peace agreement will be reached in the near future, given the rigid stance of Russia and Putin,” — Donald Tusk, Prime Minister of Poland

The Straits Times

• “Everyone expects an escalation of actions from Russia at this time, and it's quite likely that Russia will want to prolong this war at least until the winter.” — Donald Tusk, Prime Minister of Poland

The Straits Times

• “These will be exercises that prepare the entire coalition (of the willing) gathered today in Paris for such real security guarantees for Ukraine, but also for the region,” — Donald Tusk, Prime Minister of Poland

The Straits Times

• “ Tusk said Poland would host military exercises with French and British troops in the autumn so that they can be prepared to ensure security for Ukraine and the region after a peace agreement or ceasefire is eventually reached.” — Donald Tusk, Prime Minister of Poland

The Straits Times

The announced drills signal Warsaw’s intent to strengthen NATO-aligned deterrence in Eastern Europe while awaiting a diplomatic resolution. By coordinating with France and the United Kingdom, Poland aims to demonstrate continued support for Ukraine and to reassure neighboring states of collective-defense readiness.

The Straits Times