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President Nawrocki refuses to sign law to tap 44B euros in EU defense loans for Poland
President Nawrocki vetoes €44 billion EU defense loans citing sovereignty concerns; government plans alternative national funding and a backup to still access EU funds under stricter terms.
On Tuesday, the president refused to sign a law enabling Poland to access almost 44 billion euros in EU defense loans, citing dependence on Brussels.
Nawrocki and PiS cite sovereignty and procurement concerns, arguing EU conditions increase dependence on Germany and favor European suppliers over U.S. companies.
The SAFE program totals 150 billion euros, with Poland prominent among recipients preparing 139 projects, including 30 border projects, pledging 80% to domestic industry.
Nawrocki proposed an alternative draft law using national resources for defense, and he has until March 20 to decide on a final veto while the Polish government prepares a plan B.
Transatlantic concerns add context as U.S. ambassadors warned SAFE could restrict market access and undermine collective defense; Prime Minister Tusk criticised blocking funds for the Polish army and arms industry.
In Warsaw, the European project to finance Polish military investment is opposed by the Head of State and the Conservative camp. President Karol Nawrocki would be ready to oppose his veto against the European plan SAFE, a defence programme of which Poland was to be the first beneficiary.