NEW DELHI: Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk issued a warning highlighting the looming threat of conflict in Europe, stating that the continent has entered a “pre-war era” for the first time since World War II. Speaking in an interview with the European media group LENA on Friday, Tusk said, “War is no longer a concept from the past. It is real, and it started over two years ago. The most worrying thing at the moment is that literally any scenario is possible. We haven’t seen a situation like this since 1945.” “I know it sounds devastating, especially for the younger generation, but we have to get used to the fact that a new era has begun: the pre-war era. I’m not exaggerating; it’s becoming clearer every day,” he added. Adding to the unease is the prospect of the return of former US president Donald Trump, whose sceptical stance towards Nato has raised doubts about the reliability of American military assistance, should he be re-elected in November. “Our job is to nurture transatlantic relations, regardless of who the US president is,” Tusk said. Donald Trump in February had issued a warning for Nato allies saying that he “would encourage” Russia “to do whatever the hell they want” to countries that are “delinquent,” continuing his attack on foreign aid. “No I would not protect you. In fact, I would encourage them to do whatever the hell they want. You gotta pay. You gotta pay your bills,” the former US president said. Tusk’s concerns stem from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago, which shattered the post-war peace that European leaders had long taken for granted. This destabilising event has prompted many European countries to increase weapons production to support Ukraine and bolster their own militaries. The former European Council president, whose country has staunchly supported Ukraine, warned that if Kyiv were to fall, the safety of Europe would be compromised. Tusk said that if Kyiv lost, “no one” in Europe would feel safe. (With inputs from agencies)
