The Nordic states (Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland and Iceland) and the Baltic states (Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia) form the so-called NB8 Group. Polish Prime Minister was invited to the NB8 summit at the Swedish residence of Harpsund as a special guest.

The new political landscape proves challenging for many European nations. This is particularly relevant in the context of the war in Ukraine and the possible scenario of Russia gaining the upper hand. Poland is ready to play a key role in bringing together countries that share the same goal - ensuring security.

Together with the Nordic and Baltic states, we face the same threat and offer the same solution. . . We have a common view on security, on the approach to Russia and Ukraine, and on NATO and transatlantic relations,

said the Prime Minister at the joint press conference of the NB8 Summit in Sweden.

The answer to geopolitical challenges is for Europe to show strength and determination.

We must show that we are prepared to do everything to prevent a situation in which we would be exposed to Russian aggression,

Donald Tusk explained.

Joint action between NATO and the European Union is key in this regard.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk is attempting to convince European leaders that the fate of Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine at the table. This applies to all future peace agreements and negotiations concerning the end of the war.

A safe Ukraine means a safer Poland, Sweden, Norway, Europe and the whole West. That is why we must not falter in our support for Ukraine. If Ukraine loses, we all lose,

the Polish Prime Minister declared.

Donald Tusk also warned against the illusory solution based on agreeing to Russian demands. Moscow wants to establish a so-called neutral Ukraine, pursuing its demilitarisation and takeover of Ukrainian territory. In Russia's understanding, such a solution would stabilise the situation in the region and prevent the threat of a third world war.

In reality, the result will be the exact opposite. Us giving up and ceasing our support for Ukraine will deepen the crisis and put us in even greater danger,

Donald Tusk explained.

Therefore, sanctions need to be imposed on Russia and Belarus, while profits from frozen Russian assets should be used to fund Ukraine. The intensified Belariusian hostilities on the Polish border, the activities of the so-called 'shadow fleet' and attempts to sow disinformation and destabilise Western societies are evident.

During the summit, the Polish Prime Minister outlined the priorities of the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, which will begin on 1 January 2025.

Our priorities will include security, resilience and Ukraine. I know I can count on the support of everyone here to make these plans a reality,

the Prime Minister noted.

During the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, Poland will appeal to all countries to support Ukraine militarily, financially and politically.

The Baltic Sea has been seeing rapid geopolitical shifts. Russia's war against Ukraine has changed the reality of the region, and of Europe as a whole.

The Nordic and Baltic states are our biggest partners and allies, especially when it comes to defence and security. . . We also share the same view of the situation regarding the necessary use of strategic resources in the Baltic Sea,

the Prime Minister noted.

That is why we need new and ambitious ways to respond to the emerging threats.

I have proposed launching a joint mission to patrol the waters of the Baltic Sea. The suggestion was met with interest. We are going to work on the details,

Donald Tusk stated.

As he explained, Poland plans to increase its investments in the Baltic Sea. This includes offshore wind power plants, which will be key to increasing energy security in the region.

In the face of new challenges, Europe must be united as well as self-sufficient. It should also be ready to replace at least part of the support provided by the United States to Ukraine should the need arise.

We should forget about wishful thinking concerning the prospects for the next weeks and months. Europe and NATO need to rise to the challenge and be prepared to possibly replace the United States in some capacity. . . We should see this as an opportunity, rather than a threat. Only Europe can assume responsibility for ensuring its own security,

the Polish Prime Minister explained.

If we want to prevent the next stage of Russian aggression, we must be bold and think about our interests.

Let us compare our potential with that of Russia. There is no reason for us to be afraid and think about surrendering, or dropping support for Ukraine in this conflict. This is all in our heads,

the Prime Minister stated.

Europe must show Russia and the world at large that it is prepared to act as one, and be bolder when the time comes.

Joint statement after the summit of the leaders of the Nordic countries, the Baltic States and Poland.