Polish PM warns against 'illusions' over Trump's Ukraine rhetoric

Poland's prime minister cautioned on Thursday against having any "illusions" about Donald Trump's stance on Ukraine, after the U.S. president said in a rhetorical shift that he believed Kyiv could retake all its land occupied by Russia.

Trump's comments on Tuesday prompted relief among some but also suspicion among others that he is ready to leave Europe more to its own devices in supporting Ukraine against Russia's invasion.

"President Trump stated that Ukraine, with the support of the European Union, could reclaim its entire territory," Tusk wrote on social media platform X on Thursday.

"Behind this surprising optimism lies a promise of reduced U.S. involvement and a shift of responsibility for ending the war to Europe. Better truth than illusions."

Poland's nationalist president, Karol Nawrocki, said on Wednesday that Trump's remarks were "great".

Nawrocki and Tusk agree on the need to help Ukraine in the war. But Nawrocki prioritises relations with the White House and believes the EU should not get involved in defence, while Tusk says the bloc should play a role alongside NATO and the United States.