Tusk Lashes Out at EU Summit Over Backdoor Talks with Russia

During a European Council meeting starting June 18, Prime Minister Donald Tusk firmly declared that Poland will not recognize agreements reached by exclusionary formats that bypass national representation.

The Dispute Over Representation

The European Council summit, scheduled from June 18 to 19, was set to address financial frameworks, global economic challenges, and the war in Ukraine. During the debate, Tusk voiced strong opposition regarding who holds the mandate to negotiate with Russia on behalf of the EU.

According to reports from RMF FM, Tusk stated that Poland will not feel bound by decisions made in formats where it is not represented, specifically citing the E3 group involving France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

Poland’s Red Lines on Security

Prime Minister Tusk reiterated his established position that no peace plan or diplomatic condition can compromise Polish security or be decided without Warsaw’s participation. He emphasized that agreements must not favor the aggressor nor weaken Europe, Poland, or Ukraine.

Criticism of Antonio Costa’s Outreach

EU leaders also confronted Council President Antonio Costa regarding his recent contacts with Moscow. While Costa defended these as maintaining communication channels rather than substantive negotiations, critics expressed concern over the method of engagement and the potential political ramifications.

EU Strategy Toward Ukraine and Russia

Ahead of the meeting, Costa maintained that supporting Ukraine remains a priority for the EU. He stated that the bloc’s dual approach of military support for Kyiv and mounting pressure on Russia remains effective, intending for the summit to project a strong signal of unity.