New agreement strengthens European security amid concerns over Russia and U.S. commitment
In a landmark move to bolster European security, France and Poland signed a new cooperation and friendship treaty on May 9, 2025, in Nancy, France. The agreement, sealed by French President Emmanuel Macron and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, includes a mutual defense clause committing both nations to provide military support in the event of an attack on either country’s territory.
The treaty, officially named the French-Polish Friendship and Strategy Pact, marks a significant step in deepening ties between the two NATO and EU allies. It comes at a time of heightened concern over Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and uncertainties surrounding the United States’ long-term commitment to European defense, particularly following recent U.S. policy shifts.
“In the event of armed aggression on their territories, the parties shall provide mutual assistance, including by military means,” the treaty states, according to documents reviewed by AFP. This clause reinforces existing NATO and EU protections but signals a stronger bilateral commitment between France and Poland.
Must Read: US-China Trade Talks in Geneva: Trump Claims ‘Total Reset’ Amid Ongoing Negotiations
Macron emphasized the treaty’s defense focus, noting it complements NATO’s framework while enhancing Europe’s strategic autonomy. “This treaty lifts the Franco-Polish partnership to a high level of ambition in strategic areas for our two countries and for Europe, particularly defense and energy,” a statement from the French presidency said.
Tusk hailed the agreement as “groundbreaking” for Poland’s security, particularly given its strategic position on NATO’s eastern flank, bordering Russia’s Kaliningrad exclave and Ukraine. “I am profoundly convinced that France and Poland will be able to count on each other in all circumstances, good and bad,” Tusk said at the signing ceremony.
Beyond defense, the treaty opens avenues for cooperation in nuclear energy, defense technology, and economic initiatives. Discussions are underway for Poland to procure French military equipment, including Airbus tanker aircraft and possibly submarines. The agreement also hints at potential French nuclear deterrence extended to Poland, though Tusk noted that further technical and financial talks are needed.
The timing and location of the signing carry symbolic weight. Nancy, in eastern France, is close to the German border, underscoring the broader European context of the agreement, which aligns with the Franco-German-Polish Weimar Triangle’s push for deeper defense integration. The date, May 9, coincided with Russia’s Victory Day parade in Moscow, attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping, adding a geopolitical subtext to the treaty’s announcement.
Poland’s growing military clout underpins its pivotal role in the pact. Spending over 4% of its GDP on defense—the highest in NATO—Poland aims to expand its army to 300,000 troops by 2035, potentially surpassing France and Germany. Analysts suggest this treaty positions Poland as a central player in European security, especially as doubts linger over U.S. reliability under President Donald Trump’s administration.
Must Read: Google to Pay Texas $1.375 Billion in Historic Privacy Settlement
The treaty has sparked discussions about Europe taking greater responsibility for its defense. It also sets the stage for further regional cooperation, with Poland negotiating a similar security pact with the UK and Germany’s new chancellor, Friedrich Merz, expressing interest in nuclear protection talks with France.
As Europe navigates a turbulent geopolitical landscape, the France-Poland treaty sends a clear message: the continent is forging stronger alliances to safeguard its future. For now, both nations stand united, ready to face challenges together in an increasingly uncertain world.