Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warns of looming critical months amid Russian threats to the country’s security.
The 2026 Prime Minister said Poland is preparing for “various” scenarios, following reports that Moscow could stage an armed provocation to test NATO’s resolve.
Tusk referenced U.S. intelligence indicating Moscow plans to challenge Poland with a test of the alliance’s collective defence and warned that the situation is evolving sharply, especially for the Baltic states.
Polish media Onet reported that U.S. officials have cautioned Warsaw of an imminent attack plot. While the White House declined to comment, the UK’s Telegraph published details of possible missile or drone strikes aimed at infrastructure, or a ground incursion to pressure Ukraine’s western supporters.
He stressed that Poland’s defence forces are ready for “various situations,” but must not dismiss the growing threats. The Prime Minister and other leaders face forthcoming NATO summit in Turkey, where European capitals are urged to meet U.S. calls for increased defence spending and sustain weapons aid to Ukraine.
Tusk’s remarks echo earlier warnings that Russia could launch an attack on a NATO member in the coming months, with Deputy Prime Minister Radek Sikorski noting potential “false‑flag” operations in the near future. Baltic states have also recognised Russia’s preference for hybrid warfare tactics—missile or drone incursions—over conventional attacks.
The joint Polish–Lithuanian exercise conducted in late June underscores the readiness of Warsaw’s forces, while NATO’s Article 5 remains the cornerstone of collective defense if one member is attacked.
