"Poland is back in Europe: this is the most important moment in my political life, it has not been an easy task." This was stated by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, arriving at the EU-Western Balkans summit underway in Brussels. "My role today is to strengthen the resolve of Europe as a whole and some member states to convince them that the most important thing is to effectively support Ukraine," Tusk added for the first time in Brussels as prime minister after the legislative elections on 15 October.
"Apathy or war fatigue is unacceptable: we are not only talking about Ukraine and the conflict, but also about our future," the prime minister added. "It's not only important because I'm Polish and because it's vital for Poland," but it's also "important for the whole community." "Ukraine can win against Russia and against that part of the world that is against our values and interests," Tusk said, adding that he would try to persuade Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban to give the green light to start negotiations on Ukraine's EU membership. "Orban is a very pragmatic leader," Tusk said.