In recent days, U.S. President Donald Trump’s envoys have crisscrossed Europe, trying to find a way to end the war in Ukraine, sparked by Russia’s invasion. Confusion and frustration have spread among Europe’s political elites, as different messages fly around. At the same time, talks between American and Russian officials have started in Riyadh, and Europe is left scrambling for a seat at the negotiating table.
Jacek Saryusz-Wolski, former MEP from Poland’s Law and Justice (PiS) party, weighed in on the complex situation during an interview with journalist Katarzyna Gójska on TV Republika.
A Fog of Negotiations and European Panic
Saryusz-Wolski described the negotiations as still being in their infancy, with little information coming out of the first meetings in Riyadh. “The statements so far don’t offer much beyond the fact that both sides are being polite with each other,” he said.
He pointed out the mixed signals coming from various sources, including Riyadh and prominent figures like Pete Hegseth and Gen. Keith Kellogg. He believes this “confusion” is not accidental but a deliberate tactic. “Conflicting messages are being sent out to gauge the other side’s stance. It’s a calculated move by Washington, not a mistake,” he explained.
According to Saryusz-Wolski, European leaders are panicking. “There’s real hysteria among the elites in Europe and even some Polish media are getting caught up in it. We need to stay calm and rational. We’re still in the very early stages of this process,” he emphasized.
Hollow Promises and the Need for a Buffer Zone
Looking at possible outcomes, Saryusz-Wolski mentioned a potential framework where a demarcation line is established, with European troops stationed along it, and Russia agreeing to such terms. “If that’s achievable and sustainable, it could be a good solution. It would provide Poland with a vital buffer zone,” he said.
However, he dismissed the recent Paris summit as nothing more than empty talk. “There’s no substance behind those statements,” he said bluntly.
Poland Must Take Action Now
Given the current geopolitical instability, Saryusz-Wolski stressed that Poland must act decisively. “There’s a lot of turmoil out there, and some think it’s the end of the world. But Poland needs to stay pragmatic and seize this opportunity. We must make a second major leap in military expansion, preparing for the worst-case scenario,” he said.
He warned that even if a deal between Ukraine and Russia is reached, it may only be temporary. “Military experts say that even if an agreement is made, it will only give us a short break. In the worst case, we need to be ready for conflict again in three or four years. That means significantly boosting defence spending and making sure we keep a pro-American president in power,” Saryusz-Wolski advised.
Turkey’s Stance and Europe’s Dangerous Gamble
Saryusz-Wolski also pointed out an often-overlooked factor: Turkey’s strong opposition to Ukraine giving up any territory. “While Western Europe seems ready to accept Ukraine losing land, Turkey—under President Erdoğan—has made it clear they won’t allow it. This adds another unpredictable layer to how things might end,” he noted.
Standing Strong with the U.S.
For Poland, this is the time to consolidate, strengthen its military, and double down on its alliance with the United States.
“We can’t follow the European elites who are upset with America for telling them the truth. Some are even talking about getting security guarantees from China, which is not only naïve but could provoke the U.S. dangerously,”
he warned.