What Democrats Can Learn from Tusk’s Defence Policy Playbook – COMMENTARY

Europe’s frontline states get it — deterrence needs more than just weapons

10 March 2025

Goran Buldioski and Wojciech Przybylski

Europe faces a critical choice: defend democracy or leave it to nationalists. As military readiness declines and defence becomes a political tool, pro-democracy leaders must act. Poland’s approach — combining military preparedness with civic engagement — reflects the strategy we have long advocated and offers a model for Europe’s future security.

We must say it out loud: all of Europe must once again listen to our region on democratic security matters.

Recent statements from leaders like Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs, warning against Russia, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, announcing large-scale military training, reflect a growing recognition of what we have long argued — NATO’s Eastern Flank is indispensable to Europe’s defence.

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