Speaking at a refurbished border barrier, Tusk drew parallels to the 45th anniversary of Poland’s Solidarity movement, saying the border "is as significant today as our dream to free ourselves from Soviet domination 45 years ago."
He emphasised that recent weeks of the war in Ukraine demonstrate that concessions to Russia "do not lead to success or guarantee security."
Tusk called for firm European support for Poland and Ukraine, urging NATO, the European Union and the United States to remain resolute.
"Poland is well-prepared, and the European Union, personally represented here by President von der Leyen, is also here to argue for European investment in this border," he said.
Von der Leyen highlighted plans for long-term EU defence investment, including an EUR 800 billion budget for 2030.
She also underlined the acceleration of the SAFE procurement instrument, a EUR 150 billion programme for joint military purchases.
"And today we see the result. Nineteen countries have already applied for SAFE, Poland is among them. So the instrument is 150 billion euro, (...) is fully subscribed, and Poland will be the biggest beneficiary of this common investment for joint procurement," she said.
The Commission president added that the funds could also strengthen Ukraine’s industrial base
She reiterated EU solidarity with Poland as a frontline state, stressing that European borders are "a shared responsibility."
Tusk confirmed that security concerns had briefly prompted reconsideration of the press conference location after reports of Belarusian soldiers near the site.
"Zero concessions, no one here will intimidate us," he said.
"We are here to show true European determination."
Sunday’s visit combined commemoration of the Solidarity anniversary with strategic messaging on European defence and border security, reflecting Warsaw’s call for stronger EU support in the face of regional threats.
(ał)
Source: PAP