Poland and the United Kingdom are poised to enter a new phase of strategic cooperation, with Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirming that both countries are ready to sign a major defence treaty later this month.

The agreement, scheduled for 27 May, is expected to significantly strengthen bilateral ties, particularly in military collaboration, at a time of growing geopolitical uncertainty in Europe and beyond. According to Tusk, the treaty reflects a shared recognition of the need for dependable partnerships built on long-term security commitments.

“We have made the final decision with Prime Minister Starmer that on 27 May a treaty between Poland and the United Kingdom will be signed. It will genuinely strengthen our cooperation, particularly in defence, but not only,” Tusk told journalists. 

His British counterpart, Keir Starmer, has emphasised the importance of closer cooperation with European allies despite the UK’s departure from the European Union. Warsaw is now positioning itself as a key intermediary in fostering renewed engagement between London and Brussels.

“We negotiated this treaty for a long time, but in the current context it is extremely important to seek reliable partners with significant potential who are ready for sustained military and broader defence cooperation,” Tusk added. 

Poland’s role could prove pivotal. With strong historical ties to both the UK and Western Europe, as well as a large Polish diaspora in Britain, Warsaw is uniquely placed to facilitate dialogue and rebuild trust in the post-Brexit landscape.

The announcement comes amid broader efforts to reshape international alliances. Tusk also revealed plans to strengthen cooperation with Canada, including an upcoming official visit aimed at advancing agreements in defence, energy and intelligence sharing.

Together, these moves suggest the emergence of a more flexible network of partnerships linking Europe with like-minded global allies. While firmly maintaining the importance of transatlantic relations with the United States, both Poland and the UK appear increasingly focused on reinforcing the regional security framework to deter Russia. 

The forthcoming treaty may mark the strengthening of European alliances in uneasy times. 

Photo: @UKDefencePoland/X

Tomasz Modrzejewski