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**Summary:**

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met at the Polish-Belarusian border to discuss strengthening the EU’s eastern border security and bolstering European defense capabilities in the face of Russian aggression. Key initiatives include the SAFE program, of which Poland will be a major beneficiary, and the construction of the “Tarcza Wschód” (Eastern Shield) defensive system. Both leaders emphasized the need for unwavering resolve and solidarity from the West, drawing parallels to the historical significance of the “Solidarity” movement and the lessons learned from World War II. Von der Leyen expressed the EU’s solidarity with Poland as a frontline state and highlighted increased EU funding for border security and defense investments.

**News Article:**

**Tusk and von der Leyen Pledge Unwavering Resolve Against Russian Aggression at Polish-Belarusian Border**

*Krynki, Poland* – Prime Minister Donald Tusk and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stood shoulder-to-shoulder at the Polish-Belarusian border today, vowing unwavering resolve and European solidarity in the face of growing threats from Russia. The meeting, held on the 45th anniversary of the founding of the “Solidarity” movement, underscored the parallels between historical struggles for freedom and the current security challenges facing Europe.

“Zero concessions,” declared Prime Minister Tusk, emphasizing the need to demonstrate true European determination. “We must show real European determination” Tusk said. The Prime Minister drew parallels between the current situation and Poland’s historic struggles against aggressors.

President von der Leyen affirmed the EU’s support for Poland as a frontline state, acknowledging the hybrid attacks Poland has faced in recent years. “Europe stands with you shoulder to shoulder in every possible way,” she said, highlighting the importance of securing the EU’s external borders. She announced increased EU funding for member states bordering Belarus and Russia.

Discussions centered on strengthening the EU’s defense capabilities, including investments in the defense industry, support for Ukraine, and streamlined joint procurement processes. Von der Leyen highlighted the €800 billion investment plan under Poland’s previous EU presidency and emphasized the importance of allocating these funds by 2030. She also noted the accelerated implementation of the SAFE program, a €150 billion joint procurement initiative, with Poland set to be its largest beneficiary.

Prime Minister Tusk emphasized Poland’s commitment to security, announcing plans to invest 200 billion złoty (€46 billion) in defense and the Polish army next year. He stressed the importance of shared responsibility and expected a similar level of commitment from all European partners in securing the eastern border.

A key component of Poland’s defense strategy is the “Tarcza Wschód” (Eastern Shield) project, a defensive system of fortifications, physical barriers, and surveillance infrastructure along its borders with Russia and Belarus. With a budget of 10 billion złoty (€2.3 billion) and a completion target of 2028, the project draws lessons from the war in Ukraine.

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