Key facts
- Poland will host joint military exercises with British and French troops this fall.
- The drills are intended to prepare the Coalition of the Willing to provide security guarantees for Ukraine.
- Warsaw will also prepare for the permanent presence of UK and French troops alongside U.S. forces.
- Prime Minister Donald Tusk expressed skepticism about a near-term ceasefire due to Russia's rigid stance.
- Tusk warned of an expected escalation from Russia and a desire to prolong the war.
Poland is set to host joint military exercises involving British and French troops this autumn, aimed at bolstering security guarantees for Ukraine and the broader region. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced the plans following a meeting of Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky and leaders of the Coalition of the Willing in France.
Tusk stated that the drills would prepare the coalition to offer "genuine security guarantees" for Ukraine and its surroundings. He also indicated that Warsaw would commence preparations for the permanent stationing of U.K. and French forces in Poland, emphasizing Europe's need to assume greater responsibility for its own security.
The Coalition of the Willing, spearheaded by the U.K. and France, has committed to deploying a "reassurance force" in Ukraine post-ceasefire to enhance its security across land, air, and sea. This force is intended to aid in training Ukrainian forces and act as a deterrent against potential Russian aggression. Poland has offered logistical support but has ruled out sending troops directly to Ukraine.
Regarding the prospects for peace, Tusk expressed doubt about a near-term ceasefire or resolution, attributing the lack of progress to the "rigid stance" of Russia and President Vladimir Putin. He cautioned that an escalation from Russia is anticipated, with Moscow likely aiming to extend the conflict at least until winter.