In recent days, the subject of the "coalition of the willing" and the role of Poland in international activities for Ukraine warms public opinion. Can the activity of Donald Tusk lead Poland into armed conflict? We're looking at what reality looks like and what government's recent decisions mean.
What is "a coalition of willing"?
The "Volunteer Coalition" is a group of 33 countries, mainly European, but also Japan, Australia and Turkey, established on 2 March 2025 at the initiative of UK Prime Minister Keira Starmer. Its aim is to develop effective support for Ukraine, to ensure its access to arms and to work towards the end of the war. The coalition did not include the USA, Hungary or Slovakia.
Importantly, the coalition allows NATO countries to cooperate outside the formal structure of the Alliance, which avoids less involved countries blocking decisions. This solution gives more flexibility, but also raises questions about the scope and form of involvement of individual countries.
Poland at the heart of events
Diplomatic activity
In recent days Prime Minister Donald Tusk participated in a series of meetings of leaders of the "voluntary coalition" – first in Rzeszów and then in Kiev, where he and French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merzem and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenski.
The purpose of the talks was to draw up a proposal for a 30-day truce which would be a test for both Ukraine and Russia. The leaders stressed that they wanted to achieve a real ceasefire.
A new alliance with France
An important step was also the signing by Donald Tusk and Emmanuel Macron of a new Polish-French treaty, containing a clause on mutual assistance, also military, in case of danger. Prime Minister Tusk stressed that the Treaty is treated "deadly seriously" and that concrete actions will follow, including in the defence industry and emergency preparation.
Will Poland join the war?
Facts and concerns
Contrary to some concerns, Poland's membership of the "coalition of the willing" does not mean an automatic participation in war activities. The coalition is currently focusing on diplomatic, logistical and military support for Ukraine, but does not foresee direct combat engagement without broad political and social consent.
Prime Minister Tusk has repeatedly stressed that Poland is building a strong army not to provoke conflict, but to be a credible ally and a guarantee of security in the region.
How does the coalition work?
- The coalition allows the joint action of selected states to bypass NATO formal procedures.
- Each country decides on the extent of its commitment.
- The current main objective is to develop a truce and support Ukraine in arms and logistics.
The presence of Poland in the "voluntarily willing coalition" and the activity of Donald Tusk is primarily an expression of solidarity with Ukraine and a desire to end the war on diplomatic road. Although Poland strengthens its security and military cooperation, there are currently no grounds for direct integration into the war. Decisions are taken with caution, with a view to the national interest and stability of the region.
