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 rejected a bill designed to let the country access over €44 billion in European Union defense loans, deepening a rift with Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s government. The legislation aimed to unlock funds through the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) program, a €150 billion initiative to bolster military spending and enhance Europe’s defense sector.
Poland was poised to receive nearly €43.7 billion under the SAFE scheme, positioning it as the primary recipient of the program. Tusk’s pro-EU coalition backed the move, emphasizing that the loans would offer favorable terms to expedite military modernization amid growing security threats after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The funding could support initiatives such as fortifying the eastern border and expanding domestic arms manufacturing.
Nawrocki, aligned with the conservative opposition, argued that EU loans would deepen Poland’s reliance on Brussels. Instead, he proposed utilizing national resources, including profits from central bank reserves, to finance defense projects. His decision has drawn sharp rebukes from government officials, who see it as a setback for securing critical funding.
“The President lost his chance to act like a patriot,” said Prime Minister Donald Tusk on X, criticizing the veto as a missed opportunity to strengthen Poland’s defense capabilities through EU support. Tusk announced a special cabinet meeting to present alternative measures for approving the loan, hinting at a “plan B” to still access SAFE funds.
Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski also criticized the move on social media, warning that blocking EU mechanisms could hinder Poland’s ability to reinforce its military infrastructure. Meanwhile, Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz defended the government’s stance, contending that EU loans would allow expanded military spending without overburdening the national budget.
