Tusk warns of “Eternal War” in Ukraine, Cites Russian Resolve
LONDON – Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has cautioned that Russia‘s war in Ukraine risks becoming a protracted “permanent, eternal war” as long as Vladimir Putin remains in power, warning allies against a “sweet illusion” of distance from teh conflict. Speaking in an interview with The Sunday Times published October 26, 2025, Tusk highlighted Russia’s demonstrated willingness to endure hardship in pursuit of its objectives.
The assessment comes as the conflict enters its third and a half year with no clear resolution in sight. tusk’s warning underscores growing concerns within European capitals about the long-term implications of the war and the potential for escalating risks. The stakes are immense: the future of Ukraine’s sovereignty, the stability of the European security order, and the potential for wider conflict.
Tusk revealed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his nation’s preparedness to continue fighting for another two to three years, while hoping the war would not extend to a decade. “I have no doubts that Ukraine will survive as an independent state,” Tusk stated. However, he emphasized Russia’s key advantage: “They are ready to fight. (…) In times of war that is the absolutely crucial question,” adding,”You have no chance of winning if you are not willing to fight or at least make a sacrifice.”
Despite acknowledging Russia’s growing economic difficulties, exacerbated by new US sanctions targeting Russian oil companies, Tusk cautioned against assuming imminent victory. He further warned Britain that the conflict is not geographically distant, citing Russia’s capability to reach European capitals – including London – with nuclear-armed ballistic missiles and its ongoing cyberattacks. “They are ready to destroy the cyber infrastructure of our railways, our hospitals in Poland,” tusk saeid.
