Polish president Nawrocki vetoes law unlocking €44bn in EU defence loans

Polish President Nawrocki Vetoes Bill for EU Defence Loans

President Karol Nawrocki of Poland has overturned a legislative proposal that would have granted the nation access to nearly €44 billion in European Union defence loans, deepening a rift with Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s pro-EU administration. The measure was designed to let Warsaw utilize funds from the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) program, a €150 billion initiative targeting military modernisation and bolstering Europe’s defence sector.

Poland stood to benefit most from the scheme, with approximately €43.7 billion allocated specifically for its defence needs. Tusk’s coalition had championed the legislation, asserting that the loans would offer Poland advantageous financing to enhance its military readiness amid growing security threats from Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Officials highlighted that the funds could support projects like reinforcing the eastern border and expanding domestic armament production.

“The President lost his chance to act like a patriot,” stated Prime Minister Donald Tusk in a post on X, accusing Nawrocki of missing an opportunity to secure EU-backed financing. He also announced a special cabinet meeting to propose alternative steps for approving the loan.

Nawrocki, backed by the conservative opposition, countered that EU loans risked increasing Poland’s dependence on Brussels. He advocated using national resources, such as profits from the central bank’s reserves, to fund defence investments. This decision sparked backlash from government members, with Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski warning that blocking the EU mechanism could hamper Poland’s efforts to strengthen its military.

Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz defended the government’s approach, insisting that EU loans would enable military spending without straining the national budget. Despite the veto, Tusk hinted at a “plan B,” suggesting the government remains open to securing SAFE funds through revised strategies.