Polish president Nawrocki vetoes law unlocking €44bn in EU defence loans
Polish President Blocks Access to EU Defence Funds
President Karol Nawrocki has rejected a legislative proposal that would have granted Poland nearly €44 billion in European Union defence loans, intensifying a conflict with the government led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk. The bill aimed to enable Warsaw to draw from the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) program, a €150 billion initiative designed to increase defence spending and bolster the continent’s military industry. Poland was positioned to receive approximately €43.7 billion under the plan, making it the primary recipient of the scheme.
Government’s Stance on EU Financing
Tusk’s pro-EU coalition had backed the legislation, emphasizing that the loans would offer advantageous financing to advance Poland’s military modernization. This comes amid rising security threats after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The funds could support initiatives such as reinforcing the eastern border and promoting domestic arms manufacturing.
President’s Opposition to EU Loans
Nawrocki, aligned with the conservative opposition, argued that EU loans could deepen Poland’s reliance on Brussels. He proposed utilizing domestic resources instead, including earnings from the country’s central bank reserves. His decision prompted immediate backlash from government officials. In a post on X, Tusk stated:
“The President lost his chance to act like a patriot,”
suggesting the move missed an opportunity to secure EU funding for defence.
Political Reactions and Next Steps
Tusk announced a special cabinet meeting to outline alternative measures for approving the loan, hinting at a “plan B” to retain SAFE funding access. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski warned on social media that blocking the EU mechanism might undermine Poland’s capacity to enhance its defence readiness. Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, however, defended the government’s approach, claiming EU loans would allow expansion of military spending without overburdening the national budget.
